Motorcycle Accidents and Traumatic Brain Injury

When many people think of motorcycles, they may imagine the thrill of hopping on and riding along scenic routes, making lifetime memories. While there can be a certain level of thrill that comes with this mode of travel, motorcycle crashes can be horrific with lasting consequences. . Motorcycle riders are far more likely to suffer a traumatic brain injury (TBI) during a motorcycle accident than other accident victims because they lack a metal structure to take on the impact. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner, understanding the potential dangers and the importance of protective gear, especially helmets, can help reduce the risk of severe injuries.

What Is Traumatic Brain Injury?

Traumatic brain injuries happen when an external force impacts the brain, causing damage. In the case of motorcycle accidents, this can happen when the rider’s head hits the pavement, another vehicle, or an object. The force of impact can cause the brain to move within the skull, resulting in bruising, swelling, and bleeding. TBIs are generally categorized depending on the severity and nature of the injury:

Mild: The individual is usually awake and with their eyes open. Symptoms may include confusion, disorientation, memory loss, headaches, and a brief loss of consciousness.
Moderate: One appears lethargic and only responds to stimulation. Loss of consciousness lasts between 20 minutes and 6 hours, with possible brain swelling or bleeding.
Severe: The individual is unconscious, and their eyes do not open, even with stimulation. Loss of consciousness lasts for more than 6 hours.

While skull fractures and penetrating injuries are typically linked to severe traumatic brain injuries, non-penetrating injuries are more commonly seen in motorcycle riders. These include:

Concussion: A concussion occurs when the brain is bruised due to a high-speed impact, and it can happen even if a rider is wearing a helmet. The symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and, in some cases, permanent speech difficulties.
Countercoup: Also known as “shaken brain syndrome,” this happens when the brain is jolted within the skull, often during high-speed ejections.
Hematoma: Hematomas are blood clots that can occur between the brain and skull or within the brain. Symptoms may not appear until days or weeks later, and surgical intervention is often needed.
Rotation: If the brain rotates inside the skull, it can cause both a hematoma and a diffuse axonal injury, which can be fatal. Helmets typically offer little to no protection in cases of rotational injury.

In some instances, the shock from a motorcycle accident can obscure the symptoms of a serious head injury, which is why all riders who experience a blow to the head should seek immediate and thorough medical evaluation, even if they initially feel fine.

The Importance of Helmet Use in Preventing TBIs

Wearing a helmet is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of TBIs in motorcycle accidents. Helmets act as a protective barrier, absorbing and distributing the impact of a crash. Studies show that wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of brain injury by up to 69% and the risk of death by 42%. To maximize protection, ensure the helmet is certified by the Department of Transportation (DOT) or the Snell Memorial Foundation. Both organizations run tests on helmets to ensure they meet safety standards, so look for either label on the helmet.

Legal Help Is Available

If you or a loved one has suffered a TBI from a motorcycle accident, contact our the law office of Brian G. Miller CO., L.L.C., today for legal help.

Source:

help.stacks.cdc.gov/view/cdc/83667