Michigan Motorcycle Accidents Cause Traumatic Brain Injury

Motorcycle crashes are more severe in nature than car crashes due to the rider’s exposure to the elements. Because there is nothing to shield the rider from the initial impact, the rider is more vulnerable and at greater risk for serious injuries.

One of the most common injuries motorcycle riders suffer is head trauma. Of course broken bones, road rash, disfigurement, paralysis, and even death may occur, but brain injury is the leading injury affecting motorcycle riders.

A 2008 study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration revealed that motorcycle riders had an increased risk for head trauma and traumatic brain injury if they were not wearing helmets at the time of a Michigan motorcycle accident.

The leading cause of traumatic brain injury (TBI) in the United States is car and motorcycle accidents. Motorcycle crashes and auto accidents account for the greatest number of TBIs, as passenger vehicles rarely watch out for motorcyclists on the roads.

Head trauma will often leave the motorcyclist impaired for life because the brain cannot heal itself as other organs do. If the front part of the head is injured, speech, trouble communicating and impairment of higher functions can result. If an object penetrates the skull, brain injuries may occur, which can cause personality changes, and lead to trouble with:

• Speech
• Motor skills
• Cognitive thinking

A helmet that is approved by the federal Department of Transportation is the best way to prevent a traumatic brain injury. Although helmets are not fool-proof and do not always prevent head trauma studies indicate that they do lessen the severity of head injuries.

Brain injury caused by motorcycle accidents can also emotionally and financially affect the victim’s family and loved ones. A motorcyclist who suffers a TBI will need medical care, physical therapy, rehabilitation.

If you have sustained a brain injury in Michigan and are trying to deal with your life-changing disabilities, contact a Michigan motorcycle accident attorney who has experience dealing with brain-injury victims. Contact the law firm of Keller & Keller today at (269) 983-7333 and find out how they can help you obtain financial compensation.

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