While cyclists enjoy countless advantages, there are risks you must be aware of to avoid accidents and suffering bodily harm. Unfortunately, even if you take every precaution, you could still end up in a collision caused by careless drivers.
Wrecks can leave you with mild to severe injuries, which can have a range of consequences, depending on the case specifics. Contact a qualified lawyer for questions about the common injuries from bicycle accidents in Houston. Our determined bicycle crash attorneys could offer more information or help with a case.
Skull Fractures and Traumatic Brain Injuries
Cyclists commonly sustain serious head injuries in collisions with automobiles due to the forceful impact.
According to data and results of studies conducted by the National Library of Medicine, head trauma is the most significant cause of long-term and permanent disabilities or death in bicycle-automobile-related wrecks.
Skull fractures are cracks in the bones surrounding the brain, and the severity of the injuries depends on where the fractures occur. While a linear fracture is a clean break that does not cause the surrounding bone and tissue to shift, a basilar fracture happens at the skull’s base and can be devastating. By knowing the common injuries from Houston bicycle accidents, riders can help keep themselves safe while cycling.
Back and Spinal Cord Injuries
When Houston cyclists are in crashes with vehicles, they commonly suffer back and spinal cord injuries, which can be severe and life-altering. The incident can have long-term or lifelong adverse consequences on the injured party’s mobility and overall health. Some examples of back and spinal cord injuries include the following:
- Herniated discs
- Spinal fractures
- Long-term or permanent paralysis
- Back sprains and strains
There are back and spinal cord damage symptoms that individuals may experience following a wreck, such as:
- Extreme pain
- Numbness or loss of sensation
- Paralysis
- Muscle weakness
- Difficulty breathing
Serious back injuries require immediate care from a healthcare professional and, depending on the severity, may require long-term treatment.
More Common Injuries From Bicycle Crashes
While head and spinal injuries are the most common in high-impact accidents, there are other forms of harm that Houston bikers can incur, including the following:
- Broken bones or traumatic amputations
- Deep cuts, lacerations and bruises
- Face and dental damage
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement
- Road rash
- Whiplash and other soft tissue injuries
- Internal bleeding and organ damage
- Wrongful death
Cyclists can improve safety and minimize the risk of severe injuries in bike collisions by wearing safety gear, including helmets, and following traffic and safety rules while out riding.
Speak to an Attorney About the Common Injuries From Houston Bicycle Accidents
When bicycles collide with automobiles, cyclists are highly vulnerable to harm during the forceful impact. Following traffic rules and regulations and wearing safety gear can improve one’s chances of avoiding devastating and life-altering injuries, but there is no way to eliminate the risk altogether.
When the thoughtless actions of someone else leave you with bodily harm and other losses, you have legal rights and may pursue monetary damages. Get in touch with a knowledgeable lawyer for help with a claim and more information about the common injuries from bicycle accidents in Houston. Our dedicated personal injury attorneys could review your case and help devise a plan of action to obtain compensation.