Why Road Rash Is a More Serious Injury Than You Think

Motorcyclists are no strangers to risk. From negligent motorists to unforeseen obstacles, there is an unfortunate laundry list of possible accidents to get into — and from those, possible injuries. But that doesn’t mean no one should ride, right? After all, the adrenaline rush is part of the draw. So, if you are going to chase that thrill, the best thing you can do is be aware of all those risks and take the necessary precautions to mitigate them.

Aside from the most obvious injuries, such as broken bones and traumatic brain events, there’s a lesser-known but just as common danger – road rash. The uninitiated may brush it off as a skinned knee, but the truth is much more serious. At Biby Law Firm here in Tulsa, we understand exactly how dangerous (and how costly) road rash can be, and we know how to help you seek compensation  for it.

Why is road rash so serious?

In some cases, it isn’t. Just as with other injuries, there are different degrees with different risks associated. However, when one is riding a motorcycle, the lack of external padding and the abundance of speed almost guarantees a third-degree friction burn, as road rash is caused by prolonged skidding along asphalt, especially with unprotected skin.

This means incredibly painful, deep abrasions of the skin. Foreign objects, such as glass, gravel, and other vehicle debris could be embedded into the rider’s body, significantly increasing the risk of infection if not treated in a timely manner. The biggest risk from the infection is sepsis – a potentially deadly inflammatory response the body has to infections.

Not only that, but serious road rash can lead to permanent scarring and disfiguration. Bruising, damaged nerves, broken bones — all symptoms of a serious case of road rash.

What are the treatments for road rash?

If the accident has already happened, the treatment plan you face depends entirely on the severity of the injury. First, of course, you should seek medical treatment immediately after the crash. Especially in the case of a motorcycle accident, you are incredibly likely to have foreign objects lodged in your abrasions, and you should ABSOLUTELY NOT try to remove these objects without a professional.

That doctor will determine your next course of action. More minor cases simply need to be cleaned and protected but may still require debriding, stitches, and heavy medication for the pain. It’s going to hurt, but it is survivable.

Serious, extreme cases of road rash may require much more. Broken bones will need to be set, and nerve damage may need surgery to fix. When the effects of road rash are that significant, the rider may also need additional physical or occupational therapy. In some cases, victims need skin graft surgery to replace damaged and missing skin. Depending on the extent of the scarring, additional cosmetic surgery may be needed.

How can you prevent road rash?

While no accident is 100% preventable, you can take certain precautions to reduce their risk and severity. There’s a reason why motorcyclists are associated with leather jackets, heavy jeans and leather gloves to go with their full helmets — because they work. The less exposed skin, the less risk of road rash. So aside from riding in style, you’re riding with safety on your side. Other than your choice of riding gear, the best method of prevention is the same as for avoiding any other injury: be aware of your surroundings.

To be as safe as truly possible when riding a motorcycle, you want to take each and every risk as seriously as the last. Remember the heightened dangers and take preventative measures wherever and whenever you can. This includes avoiding distractions and paying attention to the actions of the drivers with whom you’re sharing the road at all times. If someone is tailgating you, putting you at risk of a rear-end collision, change lanes as soon as you’re able and let them pass. Also be extra cautious at intersections to avoid drivers who might turn in front of you or otherwise violate your right of way.

If you still find yourself suffering painful, serious road rash after a motorcycle accident of any sort, your next best step is to get proper representation to fight for your rights. No one should have to worry about their medical needs and finances when recovering, and Oklahoma is too beautiful of a state to miss out on the joy of riding a motorcycle. Whether you’re here in Tulsa or out in the country, these roads are begging for a trip. The motorcycle accident attorneys at Biby Law Firm can help you get back out there. For more information, contact us or call us today at 918-574-8458, and don’t let your life skid to a halt.