In the US each year there are approximately 89,000 motorcycle accidents. But how many motorcycle accidents each year result in head injuries?
Most motorcycle deaths in the US each year involve some degree of head injuries. In addition, we know that head injuries are very common in non-fatal motorcycle accidents. Approximately 17 percent of motorcyclists who do not wear a helmet incur a concussion or moderate to severe head injury in a motorcycle accident. For those wearing a helmet, the number is closer to 12 percent.
Although these rates seem low, they do not take into account a portion of motorcyclists who suffer a concussion but do not receive medical treatment. Left untreated, a concussion (a mild traumatic brain injury) can result in long-term symptoms and complications.
Since concussions and other head injuries are so common in motorcycle accidents, receiving prompt medical treatment is important. Heading straight to the emergency room, urgent care, or your personal physician’s office is of utmost importance after a crash.
Some complications you might experience if you fail to get treatment for your head injury include recurring headaches, brain fog, dizziness, volatile moods (mood swings), problems with your memory, and post-concussion syndrome. Post-concussion syndrome is a period of time of ongoing concussion symptoms. It generally refers to symptoms that continue on longer than one might expect for head injury symptoms.
What is the Best Treatment for Head Injuries?
When it comes to treatment for head injuries, truly doctor knows best. Most doctors will prescribe a period of mental and physical rest. Most of us understand what physical rest is. Mental rest refers to a period of time in which you reduce your typical cognitive activity. This means putting away books, movies, television, and conversation and instead opting for long naps and quiet time.
Some people find that getting a massage is a way to relax and mentally unwind. Others find meditation or yoga helpful. Regardless, the best treatment for head injuries involves resting as much as possible. Sleeping and taking a break from mentally taxing activities can both help heal the brain.
Of course, your physician will recommend a course of treatment that maximizes recovery based on your specific injuries. Follow his or her recommendations completely. Do not stray simply because you begin to feel better. It is important to allow the brain time to heal after a head injury.
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What Are Symptoms Associated with Head Injuries?
Symptoms of head injuries include headache, dizziness, vomiting and nausea, confusion, and difficulty processing information. Many times these injuries are apparent immediately after a motorcycle accident. But sometimes they take hours or even a couple of days to become noticeable. One of the reasons for this is that the swelling that affects the brain can slowly develop over time.
Motorcycle helmets can help to reduce the impact of a collision. And although helmeted riders do have fewer head injuries than those who choose to ride without a helmet, there are still many head injuries in those with helmets. What helmets can do is reduce the risk of skull fracture. They also reduce the risk of severe head injuries, including those resulting in loss of consciousness.
Brain injuries in a motorcycle accident among helmeted motorcyclists are less severe and the risk of death is lower. But remember that although a helmet can provide some degree of protection in a motorcycle accident, helmets should never be used after being involved in a crash. This is because although the exterior of the helmet may appear alright, the materials that compose the interior can be damaged. This damage can reduce their ability to absorb the impact that occurs in a crash, leaving you exposed to more dangerous and damaging head injuries.
My Experience Representing People with Head Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents
Having represented motorcycle accident victims for over 30 years, I have a keen insight into concussions. I have seen how even a seemingly minor concussion can be debilitating. I have represented people who have suffered major traumatic brain injury in a motorcycle accident and have ended up making complete or nearly complete recoveries. What I can tell you is that concussions and traumatic brain injuries are not at all predictable.
I represented a young man once who had suffered a concussion in a motorcycle crash. Immediately after the crash he reported a mild headache but otherwise seemed unhurt. Fortunately, his mother was a nurse at a nearby physician’s office and she urged him to come in to get checked out. One of the doctors at her office were able to diagnose him with a concussion after performing several tests.
In the days following his motorcycle accident, he developed additional symptoms due to his head injury. He suffered from nausea, headaches, and had trouble concentrating. He slept a lot and his mother reported that he was moody and behaved unusually. He ended up requiring several visits with a neurologist before he was cleared to return to work.
Head injuries are among the most common injuries in motorcycle accidents. No head injury should be taken lightly. Always adhere to your doctor’s orders. And be sure to have quality representation with a top motorcycle accident lawyer. For more information or a free consultation with one of the attorneys at the Law Firm of Kass & Moses, call 1-800-MOTORCYCLE today.
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