The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that bicycle trips account for fewer than one percent of all trips in the United States. It is uncommon it is to travel by bike relative to other modes of transportation. Those who ride their bikes face a higher risk of crash-related injury and death than people in cars. The following considers some common bicycle accident injuries caused in a bicycle-car crash:
Head and Face Injuries
Nearly all cyclists involved in a crash with a motor vehicle experience some sort of harm to their head. While the level of injury may vary in type and severity, some of the most common types of head injuries include:
- Skull fractures;
- Contusions;
- Concussions; and
- Intracranial hemorrhaging.
Head injuries are often accompanied by facial injuries. This could affect the bones, skin, or eyes. Dental fractures, facial fractures, road rash, and more are all possible. One of the easiest ways to prevent head injuries is to always wear a helmet while riding.
Musculoskeletal Injuries
The musculoskeletal system refers to all the joints, nerves, muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the body. “Musculoskeletal injuries,” refer to injuries such as bone fractures, dislocations, sprains, and strains. Common areas of fracture in a bicycling accident are the wrist and elbow.
Chest and Abdominal Injuries
Injuries to the chest or the abdomen can be very traumatic. They may even be fatal if the rider gets hit with a strong amount of force and does not receive immediate medical care. Chest and abdominal injuries include rib fractures, pancreatic trauma, lung injuries, and more.
Skin and Other Soft Tissues Injuries
A bicyclist is likely to suffer a number of skin and soft tissue injuries when involved in a crash with a vehicle. For example, the cyclist may suffer lacerations or bruises or may suffer a serious road rash or road burn injury. Dragging or skidding along the surface of the road can cause these injuries. They can be very painful and may leave permanent scars.
What to Do After Suffering Serious Injuries in a Bicycle Crash
A bicycle crash can injure in several ways. It can cause physical, psychological, and economic injuries. When you’re hit by a car while riding bicycle accident in Long Beach, you have the right to seek the full amount of damages you have suffered. At the law offices of The Beliz Law Firm, our talented Long Beach bicycle accident attorneys can help. We handle every case we take on with the utmost competence and confidentiality, and always work on a contingency fee basis. Contact us today to learn more.