In California, we’re pretty spoiled when it comes to weather. Our state’s temperate climate makes outdoor activities and varying forms of transportation accessible and enjoyable year-round. Biking in particular is an extremely common way for residents to get their exercise in and to get from point A to point B. While biking provides so many benefits, it also comes with its own set of risks. At Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm, our Santa Monica, CA bicycle accident lawyer has worked with many injured cyclists, and we understand the challenges these cases can bring.
Bicycle collisions can lead to a wide range of injuries, varying from minor scrapes to life-altering conditions. Cyclists are particularly vulnerable because they lack the physical protection provided by cars or other motor vehicles, so even low-speed collisions have the potential to cause you serious harm. We hope that having an understanding of the most common types of injuries that accident victims face can help you to take appropriate precautions while cycling, such as wearing protective gear and staying alert to traffic conditions.
Head Injuries
Head injuries are perhaps the most common and severe outcomes of bike collisions. Even when a cyclist does everything right and wears their helmet, they can still suffer concussions, skull fractures, or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) due to the force of impact. TBIs, in particular, can have long-lasting effects on your memory, cognition, and overall quality of life. But symptoms may not always appear immediately, so it’s extremely important to seek medical attention after a collision, even if you feel fine at first.
Broken Bones
The impact of a collision often throws cyclists to the ground, causing broken bones. Common fractures include those to the arms, legs, collarbone, and ribs. Wrist and hand fractures are especially common, because it’s a natural instinct to try and use our hands to brace ourselves when we’re falling or about to run into something. Depending on the severity, these injuries may require surgery, physical therapy, and an extensive amount of recovery time.
Spinal Injuries
Bike collisions can also result in injuries to the spine, including herniated discs, fractures, or, in extreme cases, paralysis. Damage to the spinal cord can significantly affect mobility and may lead to chronic pain or long-term disability. Even when severe spinal injuries are considered less severe, they can still require months of treatment and rehabilitation. If you or a loved one has suffered a spine injury because of a bike collision, please reach out to our Santa Monica bicycle accident lawyer as soon as you can.
Road Rash
Road rash occurs when a cyclist’s skin scrapes against the pavement during a collision. While often considered a minor injury by insurance companies, road rash can be extremely painful and lead to infections or permanent scarring if not treated properly. These long-term injuries require specialized attention and treatment, and victims deserve enough compensation to meet their ongoing medical needs.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Ligament sprains, muscle strains, and other soft tissue injuries may seem less serious initially but can cause significant discomfort and limit your range of motion. Soft tissue injuries often take weeks or even months to heal fully, which can really affect your ability to return to normal activities.
Internal Injuries
The force of a bike collision can also cause organ damage or internal bleeding. These injuries, like head trauma, are not always immediately visible, but they can be life-threatening if left untreated. If you’re experiencing things like abdominal pain or dizziness after a collision, you should seek out a medical evaluation as quickly as you can.
Emotional And Psychological Effects
Beyond physical injuries, bike collisions can leave emotional and psychological scars. You may experience anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after a cycling accident. These mental health challenges can be just as debilitating as physical injuries and should never be overlooked. To pursue the maximum compensation you deserve, our team will help you gather the necessary evidence to support both your physical and non-physical conditions after a bicycle accident.
Contact Us For Help
If you’ve been injured in a bike collision, getting medical care is your first priority, followed by understanding your legal options. Our Santa Monica bicycle accident lawyer can help you seek compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, and other damages resulting from the crash. At Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm, we’re here to help you take the next steps and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to arrange a free case evaluation and learn more about how we can assist you.