Types of Injuries – Road Rash
At The Motorcycle Injury Attorneys, we are more than just lawyers; we are motorcycle enthusiasts who share the road with you. When it comes to understanding the risks and consequences of motorcycle riding, Attorneys Mike Deering and Chris Hedrick bring personal insight and professional expertise to the forefront of every case. Specializing in motorcycle accident law in Virginia Beach and the greater Hampton Roads area, we provide unparalleled legal representation and client care to those injured, especially in cases involving road rash injuries.
What is Road Rash?
Road rash refers to the skin and soft tissue injury that occurs when a motorcyclist slides across the pavement during an accident. Depending on the severity, it can range from minor abrasions (where just the top layer of skin is scraped off) to severe cases (where the injury extends down to the muscles and bones).
Prevalence in Motorcycle Accidents
Road rash is one of the most common injuries sustained in motorcycle accidents. Given the exposed nature of motorcycles, when accidents occur, riders frequently come into direct contact with the road surface, leading to these painful abrasions. The extent of the injury largely depends on the speed at the time of the accident and the gear the rider is wearing.
Types of Motorcycle Accidents Leading to Road Rash
Any motorcycle accident involving the bike tipping over or sliding can result in road rash. These include high-speed collisions, accidents due to abrupt stops, incidents where the motorcycle hits an object, and scenarios where the rider is thrown from the bike.
Long-Term Health Implications
While many cases of road rash heal without lasting effects, severe instances can lead to long-term complications. These might include permanent scarring, nerve damage, and limited mobility in the affected area. There’s also the psychological impact associated with disfiguring injuries, which can affect a person’s quality of life.
Risk of Infection
One critical concern with road rash is the risk of infection. When the skin is broken, bacteria can easily enter the wound, leading to infections that can complicate the healing process. If road rash is not properly cleaned and treated immediately after an accident, the risk of infection increases significantly, potentially leading to more serious health issues.
Prevention Tips
While riding a motorcycle always carries some risk, there are steps riders can take to minimize the likelihood of sustaining road rash:
- Wear Proper Protective Gear: This includes a DOT-approved helmet, gloves, abrasion-resistant jackets, and pants, and proper footwear. Protective gear is the first line of defense against road rash.
- Follow Traffic Rules: Speeding increases the risk of accidents and the severity of injuries. Obeying traffic laws can dramatically reduce the chances of a crash.
- Stay Vigilant: Be aware of your surroundings, road conditions, and potential hazards. This vigilance can help you anticipate and avoid dangerous situations.
- Invest in Quality Riding Gear: Modern motorcycle gear often incorporates materials designed to protect the body from abrasions. Investing in such gear is an investment in your safety.
- Practice Safe Riding: Defensive riding techniques, including maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles and being cautious at intersections, can prevent many accidents.
Why Choose Us for Your Road Rash Injury?
With over 30 years of combined legal experience, Attorneys Mike Deering and Chris Hedrick have dedicated their practice to advocating for the rights of injured motorcycle riders. Their deep-rooted understanding of the local roads, the unique challenges motorcyclists face, and the devastating impact of road rash injuries set The Motorcycle Injury Attorneys apart:
- Personal Experience: As motorcyclists themselves, Attorneys Deering and Hedrick have firsthand knowledge of the dangers riders face and the caution necessary when navigating Virginia Beach and beyond. This personal experience fuels their passion and dedication to representing fellow riders.
- Expertise in Motorcycle Accident Law: Our firm’s focus is on providing expert legal advice and representation to motorcycle accident victims. We understand the nuances of motorcycle law and how to effectively negotiate with insurance companies to secure the compensation you deserve.
- Client-centric Approach: At The Motorcycle Injury Attorneys, we are committed to top-notch client service. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll an accident can take on a rider and their family, which is why we strive to make the legal process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Hear from Our Satisfied Clients
Brown’s experience sums up what we strive for with every client who walks through our doors:
‘I appreciate Mr. Deering very much. Not only did he make me feel real comfortable in the whole process, he also made sure that I understood everything. I could not have asked for a better lawyer.’
Connect With The Motorcycle Injury Attorneys
If you or a loved one has suffered a road rash injury or any other harm due to a motorcycle accident in Virginia Beach or the Hampton Roads region, Attorneys Mike Deering and Chris Hedrick are here to help. Together, we will fight to secure the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact The Motorcycle Injury Attorneys today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards recovery.