What are the most common motorbike injuries on our roads?

Written by Jayne Orme, Associate & Personal Injury Solicitor

Motorcyclists are undoubtedly one of the most vulnerable groups of road users on our roads. Without a vehicle body to protect them, bikers can unfortunately suffer serious injury if they find themselves in a collision. According to statistics from the Department for Transport, in 2021, 5264 motorcyclists were seriously injured in motorbike accidents, with 10,264 suffering minor injuries. 

Here, we cover some of the most common motorbike accident injuries experienced by our clients, and other road users, and explain what support is available if you or a loved one is involved in a motorbike accident.  

Road Rash 

A common motorbike injury we see is what is known as road rash. Road rash can happen when a biker skids across the ground, damaging the skin. Motorcycle road rash can be very painful and can vary in severity from small abrasions to more serious cases, requiring a skin graft. Wearing protective clothing, including strong boots and gloves, can help avoid or reduce the chances of road rash. 

Head Injuries 

Although wearing a helmet can help protect against motorbike head injuries, this remains a common injury type for bikers. We see a range of head injuries in motorcycle claims, from concussion, right through to serious injuries, such as Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).  

Some head injuries can have a significant impact on the biker long-term, and early medical attention and rehabilitation support is crucial here. At Fletchers, we specialise in brain injury claims, working with medical professionals and rehabilitation experts to ensure our clients receive expert support at the earliest opportunity.  

Where possible, we aim to obtain an interim payment for you, which can help fund bespoke rehabilitation, care costs, or any adaptations or housing requirements.  We also have a dedicated in-house Court of Protection Team, who can advise and assist where individuals may lack the mental capacity to deal with their own property and financial affairs, or to make decisions about their health and welfare.  

Spinal Injuries 

Suffering a spinal cord injury following a motorbike accident can be devastating. Depending on the type of spinal cord injury, you might experience a loss of movement or sensation, and in some, more serious cases, a spinal injury can lead to paralysis.  

Two of our partners, The SIA and Back Up Trust offer invaluable support and information to those who have suffered a spinal cord injury. As part of our relationship with our charity partners, we provide legal expertise, operating as a legal panel member for Back Up, as well as providing sponsorships and vital fundraising.  

Leg Injuries 

Serious limb injuries are some of the most common injuries sustained in motorbike accidents, with the legs being a particularly vulnerable area for bikers. Injuries seen include dislocations, fractures, and crush injuries.  

In some cases, leg injuries can be so severe that amputation is required. When this happens, the injured person can lose their independence; they will need to adjust to their new reality, learning new ways to move around, as well as dealing with the psychological impact of amputation.    

Burns  

Bikers may suffer burn injuries if their skin comes into contact with something hot during an accident; an exhaust pipe for example. Burns can vary in severity, from superficial through to full thickness burns, where there is damage to all three layers of the skin.  

Life after a motorbike injury  

The days and weeks following a motorbike accident can be extremely worrying. Once you’ve received immediate treatment, you might face a lengthy rehabilitation period. When this is the case, the support you receive in those early days can be crucial to your overall recovery.  

As one of the UK’s leading motorbike accident solicitors, we will support your recovery by providing access to specialist medical advice, therapies, and rehabilitation; as well as helping with the provision of specialist equipment and financial advice. We also aim to obtain early compensation payments to help with any costs you encounter after the accident, so that you can focus on your recovery.  

At Fletchers, our ultimate aim for every case is to obtain the right compensation for each individual circumstance – so you can rebuild your life following a motorbike accident. 

To speak to our motorcycle accident team today, get in touch on 0330 013 0251 or contact us online.