Bicycling in Georgia offers both recreational enjoyment and a green commuting option.
However, it also comes with risks, particularly when sharing roads with motor vehicles.
Bicycle accident injuries are unfortunately commonplace in the event of a collision.
Read on to learn more about the most common bike crash injuries and why seeking immediate medical treatment after a crash is important.Â
Reach out to MG Law today at (770) 988-5252 for a free consultation to discuss your case and discover how we can assist you.
Head and Brain Injuries
One of the most serious bike accident injuries a cyclist can sustain is to the head. Helmets can reduce the risk of head injuries by about 48%, severe head injuries by 60%, and traumatic brain injuries by up to 53%. However, cyclists often suffer concussions and more severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) because they choose not to wear one.
Symptoms of a concussion can include confusion, headaches, vision disturbances, and dizziness, which may not appear immediately. More severe TBIs can result in long-term cognitive issues, behavioral changes, and even physical disabilities.
Fractures
Fractures are among the most common injuries for cyclists involved in accidents. The impact with a vehicle or the ground can lead to broken bones in various body parts.
Cyclists may instinctively extend their arms to break a fall, leading to wrist, arm, or shoulder fractures. Leg and rib fractures are also frequent, especially if the cyclist is thrown from the bike or crushed by the impact of a vehicle. Depending on the severity, fractures can range from simple ones requiring casting to more complex breaks that necessitate surgical intervention involving pins, plates, or screws.
Road Rash and Abrasions
Road rash occurs when a cyclist’s skin scrapes across the pavement, resulting in layers of skin being worn away. This injury is typical in bicycle accidents, especially if the cyclist slides across the road surface. Road rash can vary in severity from mild abrasions, which are superficial wounds, to severe cases, which involve multiple layers of skin and can expose muscles or bones.
Treatment for road rash involves thorough cleaning to prevent infection. The doctor may need to remove debris from the wound and dress it to protect the area as it heals. In severe cases, skin grafting may be necessary to repair the damage.
Spinal Injuries
Spinal injuries in bicycle accidents can range from lower back strain to more severe injuries like spinal cord damage. Common symptoms of a bicycle accident injury include severe pain, difficulty moving, and loss of sensation in limbs. Treatment for spinal injuries may involve immediate immobilization, surgery to stabilize the spine, and extensive rehabilitation therapy. In cases where the spinal cord is damaged, permanent paralysis is common.
Internal Injuries
Internal injuries are particularly dangerous because they may not be immediately apparent following a bicycle accident. These injuries can include internal bleeding, organ damage, or ruptured blood vessels, which can be life-threatening if not promptly treated.
Symptoms that may indicate internal injuries include severe abdominal pain, dizziness, fainting, and visible bruising. Emergency medical attention is crucial as these conditions require rapid intervention to prevent complications or death. Doctors typically use diagnostic tests like CT scans or MRIs to assess the extent of internal damage and guide treatment decisions.
Dental and Facial Injuries
Dental and facial injuries are also common in bicycle accidents, especially when cyclists face-plant or fall forward off their bikes. These injuries can range from minor bruises and cuts to more severe trauma like jaw fractures, broken teeth, and serious lacerations requiring surgical intervention.
Facial bicycle accident injuries not only cause physical pain but can also lead to significant emotional distress due to potential scarring and aesthetic changes. Treatment may involve emergency dental work, reconstructive surgery, and, in some cases, long-term cosmetic procedures to restore appearance and function. Prompt medical evaluation is essential to address these injuries effectively and prevent long-term complications.
Psychological Impact
The aftermath of a bicycle accident can extend beyond physical injuries, significantly impacting a cyclist’s mental health. Victims often experience emotional and psychological distress, including symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. Accident victims should seek mental health support alongside physical treatment to address these concerns thoroughly. Psychological recovery is as important as physical healing.
Contact MG Law
If you or someone you know suffered a bike accident injury in Georgia, you should speak with an experienced lawyer as soon as possible. At MG Law, our skilled team has decades of combined experience handling bicycle accident injuries. We know what it takes to build a solid case for compensation and how to fight for justice on your behalf.
Don’t let an accident define your future. Contact MG Law today at (770) 988-5252 for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help you achieve the best possible outcome.
Michael Geoffroy’s law practice focuses on auto collisions, premises liability, wrongful death, and catastrophic injury. He stands up for the cause of justice throughout Georgia and on behalf of his clients every day. He is a leader in both the courtroom and the community, having been recognized numerous times for his involvement in each.