What Are the Most Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents in Tulsa?

Few experiences compare to the freedom and exhilaration of riding a motorcycle, especially on the open roads around Tulsa. However, the thrill comes with significant risks. Motorcycles leave riders exposed to greater risks when involved in crashes with larger vehicles. Unlike occupants of cars, motorcyclists lack the protection of an enclosed cabin, seatbelts, or airbags. A lack of protection often leads to far more severe and catastrophic injuries.

If you have been hurt in a motorcycle accident in Tulsa, you are likely facing extensive medical treatments and a difficult recovery. Our personal injury attorneys know how overwhelming it can feel to face the legal system after experiencing such a traumatic event. We are here to provide compassionate and helpful personal injury representation.

Why Motorcycle Accidents Cause Severe Injuries 

Motorcyclists have little to no physical barrier between their bodies and the road or other vehicles. This inherent lack of protection means that even a low-speed collision can result in significant trauma. The impact often throws the rider from the motorcycle, leading to secondary impacts with the ground, other vehicles, or roadside objects. This combination of direct impact and subsequent forceful contact contributes to the severity of injuries seen in motorcycle accidents in Tulsa.

Common Types of Motorcycle Accident Injuries 

Motorcycle accidents can cause anything from surface-level wounds to life-threatening harm. Here are some of the most common injuries riders may face:

Head and Brain Injuries

Even with a helmet, head injuries are a serious concern. Helmet use is crucial, but it does not eliminate the risk of devastating injuries. A direct impact to the head can cause:

• Concussions: Often considered a mild TBI, but capable of causing lingering cognitive, emotional, or physical effects
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): These range from moderate to severe and can cause permanent cognitive, physical, and psychological impairments. TBIs often require extensive, lifelong medical care
• Skull Fractures: A fractured skull can lead to brain damage or internal bleeding

Spinal Cord Injuries

A powerful impact to the spine in a motorcycle crash can cause severe trauma to the spine, leading to:

• Herniated Discs: Discs between the vertebrae can rupture, causing pain, numbness, and weakness
• Vertebral Fractures: Breaks in the bones of the spine can lead to instability and pressure on the spinal cord
• Paralysis: The most severe spinal cord injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis, fundamentally changing a person’s life. These injuries often require specialized medical equipment and ongoing assistance

“Road Rash” and Abrasions

When a rider slides across the pavement after being thrown from their motorcycle, they can suffer severe skin abrasions known as “road rash,” which is not just a superficial scrape. Depending on the speed and friction, road rash can:

• Remove multiple layers of skin, exposing muscle or bone
• If left untreated, it may lead to complications like a severe infection
• Require skin grafts and extensive wound care, leaving permanent scarring

Bone Fractures

Broken bones are almost a given in most serious motorcycle accidents. Common fracture sites include:

• Legs and Arms: These limbs often bear the brunt of the impact or are used to brace a fall
• Pelvis: A fractured pelvis is a serious injury that can cause internal bleeding and long-term mobility issues
• Ribs and Collarbones: These fractures can cause severe pain and might lead to complications, such as puncturing a lung.

Internal Organ Damage and Bleeding

A hard impact from a crash can cause severe internal bleeding and organ damage, which may not be visible

These include:

• Organ Damage: Injuries to the liver, spleen, kidneys, or lungs
• Internal Bleeding: Internal bleeding can go unnoticed initially, but can quickly become critical if not diagnosed and treated
• Pneumothorax (Collapsed Lung): Often caused by fractured ribs

“Rider’s Arm”

This specific injury occurs when a motorcyclist extends their arm to brace for impact during a fall. The force can cause severe nerve damage, fractures, and dislocations in the arm, shoulder, and wrist. The resulting nerve damage can lead to permanent weakness, numbness, or loss of function.

Motorcycle Accidents and Oklahoma’s “Fault” System 

Oklahoma is an “at-fault” state, meaning that the driver who caused the motorcycle accident is legally and financially responsible for the damages. State law dictates that if another driver’s negligence caused your injuries, you must pursue compensation from their liability insurance. Unlike some “no-fault” states, Oklahoma does not have PIP (Personal Injury Protection) insurance, meaning you will not have this no-fault coverage for immediate medical bills and lost wages on your standard Oklahoma auto insurance policy.

Your claim relies on your providing a variety of evidence to prove negligence, including:

• Police reports
• Witness statements
• Photos and videos from the accident scene
• Medical records detailing your injuries
• Expert testimony (e.g., accident reconstructionists)

Comparative Negligence in Oklahoma

Another key aspect of Oklahoma law is modified comparative negligence, as outlined in Oklahoma Statutes, Title 23, Section 13. This rule states that if you are found to be 50% or more at fault for the accident, you cannot recover any damages. If you are found less than 50% at fault, your total compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if a jury in Tulsa finds you were 25% at fault for the accident, your total award would be reduced by 25%. Insurance companies often try to shift blame to the motorcyclist, making experienced legal representation crucial.

Our Compassionate and Knowledgeable Personal Injury Representation in Tulsa

The severe injuries and complex legal landscape after a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming. As a victim, you should not have to face the recovery process and legal system alone. At Parsons, Graham & Day, LLC, our Oklahoma-based law firm has experienced attorneys ready to help you with your personal injury needs. Our team has in-depth experience handling motorcycle accident cases and can provide you with compassionate and helpful legal advice.

We understand how intimidating it can be for someone dealing with the aftermath of a serious accident. Our firm’s team will make every effort to be accessible when you need us, providing personal attention throughout your case process.

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident in Tulsa or the surrounding areas, please contact us today at 918-553-5771 for a consultation.