There are many common injuries from bicycle accidents in Merrillville. In some cases, a bike crash means little more than cuts or bruises. In others, the results can be life-altering. If someone else’s negligent actions caused a collision that hurt you, explore your legal options today.
With the help of a dedicated bicycle accident attorney, you could pursue justice after a bicycle accident. You may be able to seek compensation due to the financial, emotional, or physical consequences of your injuries.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) have the potential to be the most dangerous outcome of a bicycle accident. In a bike crash, the cyclist falling to the ground or being struck by a motor vehicle can cause a major impact to the head, leading to brain trauma.
There are different types of TBI to be aware of, the most common of which is concussion. While less severe than some injuries, concussions can leave you with lasting health consequences, such as chronic headaches or sleep disruptions.
Bicycle accidents can also cause coup-contrecoup injuries, which involve damage to two distinct parts of the brain. A coup-contrecoup injury happens when the brain is damaged first at the point of impact and second when the brain strikes the opposite side of the skull.
While the most severe brain injuries are less common, any brain injury could have life-changing consequences, so it is critical that you seek medical care immediately after a bike accident in Merrillville and follow the plan set out by your doctor.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries are among the most devastating outcomes of bicycle accidents. When a cyclist is struck by a vehicle or thrown from their bike, the impact can damage the vertebrae or sever the spinal cord, leading to paralysis. A cyclist may lose sensation or movement below the injury site, often requiring lifelong medical care and extensive rehabilitation.
Spinal cord injuries can drastically reduce a person’s mobility and independence, so the physical and emotional costs associated with paralysis are generally significant. Common but less severe consequences of spinal trauma caused during bicycle accidents in Merrillville include chronic pain, muscle weakness, and reduced coordination.
Broken Bones
In Merrillville bicycle accidents, broken bones are one of the most common injuries. When a cyclist is struck by a car or thrown onto the pavement, the impact can easily fracture arms, legs, ribs, or the collarbone. Some fractures are simple and heal with rest and a cast, while others are compound, requiring surgery and extensive physical therapy. Severe breaks may also lead to long-term complications such as nerve damage or a limited range of motion. These injuries can keep you out of work for weeks or months, making the compensation from a personal injury claim vital.
Cuts and Bruises
Cuts, bruises, and lacerations occur frequently in Merrillville bike crashes. The nature of these injuries can vary from severe road rash to scrapes on your arms or legs.
Minor cuts and bruises will heal on their own and do not require medical intervention. In more serious cases, lacerations might require immediate treatment, such as stitches, to stop the bleeding and avoid scarring.
Talk to a Merrillville Attorney About Common Bicycle Accident Injuries
These are just some of the common injuries from bicycle accidents in Merrillville for which you may be able to pursue financial recovery. If you have been hurt in a bike crash, discuss your legal options with our team of professionals. At The Law Offices of David Holub, we will aggressively pursue the compensation you deserve following a bicycle collision. Contact us today for a private consultation.