Motorcycle and bicycle accidents are some of the worst on our highways. Riders on two wheeled vehicles are less protected from injury than other road users in enclosed vehicles. However, public roads are meant to be shared and motorcyclists and cyclists have just as much right to be safe on the highway system as any other road user.
If you are a motor cyclist or cyclist and have been knocked off your machine and injured due to poor judgment or careless driving then you should consider taking legal action against whoever was to blame.
The potentially serious injuries that can result from a motorcycle or bike accident can result in financial hardship and personal stress for you and your family.
A successful personal injury claim made against the person at fault can help to compensate for your losses.
Road Rash Can Be More Serious Than You Think
Road rash is the name given to the injuries caused when someone is dragged across a road surface or sent flying across the ground by another vehicle. It is most common in bicycle and motorcycle accidents, but potentially a pedestrian could also be hurt in the same way if hit by a vehicle.
The word ‘rash’ may not seem to mean anything too serious, but in fact this sort of injury can mean cuts and bruises on significant areas of skin which are exposed when clothes are torn.
Injuries like these can happen when a vehicle passes too close when overtaking and fails to allow sufficient space between them and the rider.
The actual injury may be just a few grazes and bruises, but may be more severe with deep cuts and the possibility of scarring. All injuries of this type should be cleaned thoroughly and dressed with significant skin damage treated for possible infection.
Road Rash Victims May Need to Seek Legal Action
If your skin has been badly damaged in a vehicle accident and you are sure that someone else was to blame, you should consider taking legal action against the driver or whoever was at fault. Bad skin injuries can take time to heal.
There is always the possibility of infection in the wounds. If scarring results, then this may need surgery to remove or replace the scarred tissue.
A personal injury claim can help to pay for any unanticipated medical costs and lost wages or other income if your injuries prevented you from working.
With all personal injury claims it is necessary to be able to demonstrate conclusively who was at fault and how the accident caused your injuries.
A Personal Injury Attorney Can Help Prepare a Claim
Personal injury claims are never easy to negotiate. Often, the insurer who represents the person you are claiming against may suggest that you were to blame for the accident. Interpreting the state’s requirements for making a personal injury claim can be difficult if you don’t have legal experience.
There is also a limited period which you have available to file a claim before you are no longer eligible. It is advisable to seek legal help from an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as you are able to do so after a road rash injury caused by someone else’s negligent actions.
