According to a report by Forbes Adviser, 82,528 people were injured in bicycle accidents. More cyclists are likely to lose their lives in accidents than motorists. The aftereffects of the injuries vary. They could range from small injuries to death.
Accidents are inevitable. After an injury, you should consider seeking medical attention. As a victim of a bicycle accident, you might also consider seeking help as you focus on healing.
These are the possible injuries after a bicycle accident.
1. Fractures
Breaking a bone is painful. An X-ray can determine the extent of the fracture. Symptoms can include an immovable leg, bruises, and bleeding. Fractures can take a significant amount of time to heal. Part of the treatment involves surgery and physiotherapy. Putting on the right protective gear can shield you from its immense effects.
2. Soft Tissue injury
Damaging your muscles and tendons can cause inflammation. Bruising can also be an effect of a soft tissue injury. Recovery involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (R.I.C.E.).
3. Head Injury
This type of injury can be mild or severe. The effects include confusion, dizziness, headaches, and memory loss. Severe head injuries can cause seizures and lead to a coma. The severity can be determined through a medical examination. This includes CT scans and MRI scans. Some effects are dire and lifelong.
4. Brain Damage
Brain damage can be mild or serious. A victim might experience mild trauma that often goes away. Unfortunately, some victims experience traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) that tamper with the normal functioning of the brain. The effects include:
- Memory loss
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Low concentration
- Sensory issues
- Paralysis
If your loved one has suffered a traumatic brain injury, you should consider the help of a personal injury lawyer for advice.
5. Spinal Cord Injury
Mild spinal cord injuries may allow a victim to carry out activities. Severe injuries, however, can cause immobility. The victim might also lose the ability to feel. A spinal cord injury can result in bowel and bladder dysfunction as well. Breathing difficulties can also be experienced. Even after treatment, secondary effects can be felt.
6. Skin Abrasions
This is a skin condition caused when the outer layer of the skin is scraped away. It can cause bleeding as well. The scars can be significant, depending on how complex the friction is.
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What To Do After a Bicycle Accident
1. Seek Medical Attention
Move to a safe distance, then assess your injuries. Seek medical attention for your injury. Remember to document your treatment and keep the receipt for payment.
2. Report the Accident to the Authorities
The police will come and gather evidence. If you cannot get to the hospital, they will coordinate with a medical team for your treatment. They will also collect evidence and insurance details about the parties involved.
3. Witness Statements
Collect the statements of witnesses and their contact information. This comes in handy when you need someone to testify for the case.
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4. Collect Contact Information of the People Involved in the Accident
Collect the contact information of the people involved in the accident. Your lawyer might need them for witness statements.
5. Call a Personal Injury Lawyer
The effects of an accident can be disorienting. It helps to have help when navigating the legal system. An experienced personal injury lawyer will be immensely helpful in tackling a compensation claim.
Conclusion
Injuries from a bicycle accident range from mild to serious. Seek medical attention immediately to prevent the injury from getting worse. Remember to preserve medical reports, receipts, and any other evidence you might collect. They will come in handy during your bicycle accident claim.
Hi, I’m the Founder and Developer of Paramedics World, a blog truly devoted to Paramedics. I am a Medical Lab Tech, a Web Developer and Bibliophiliac. My greatest hobby is to teach and motivate other peoples to do whatever they wanna do in life.