Can You Become Paralyzed in a Motorcycle Accident?

Many people enjoy the thrill of riding a motorcycle throughout Bozeman. The wind in your face, the open road ahead, and the feeling of freedom are exhilarating. Unfortunately, riding runs the risk of serious injury. Can you become paralyzed in a motorcycle accident? This is one of the most serious consequences of a bike crash. In this blog, we will explore whether paralysis can result from motorcycle accidents, what it might mean for your life, and how you can protect yourself.

Types of Paralysis

This can happen when you lose muscle function or sensation in part of your body. Most of the time, this is due to damage to the nervous system. For riders, this is often caused by spinal cord injuries and head trauma. Paralysis can be temporary or permanent. That ranges in severity depending on where the injury happens. There are two main types of paralysis. Paraplegia impacts the lower half of your body. It usually happens when the spinal cord is injured in the lower back or middle of the spine. Quadriplegia affects all four limbs, the torso, and sometimes even the ability to breathe. It is caused by injuries higher up in the neck or upper spine.

How Motorcycle Accidents Can Cause Paralysis

Motorcycles are exciting. But they do not provide much protection. Unlike cars, no steel frame, seatbelt, or airbag shields you. In an accident, your body takes the full force of the impact. If that impact damages your spinal cord, nerves, or brain, paralysis can happen. Some of the most common ways that motorcycle crashes lead to paralysis include:

• Direct impact on the spine: A collision or hard fall can fracture or dislocate the bones in your spine. If the spinal cord inside gets compressed or torn, it can result in paralysis. According to the United Spinal Association, motor vehicle accidents, including those involving motorcycles, make up 39.3% of spinal cord injuries.
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): Even if you’re wearing a helmet, severe head injuries can damage the brain’s motor control centers and cause paralysis.
• Sudden twists or whiplash: The force of being thrown off your bike or jolted in a crash can stretch or tear the spinal cord, even if the bones remain intact.
• Penetrating injuries: Sharp debris, like metal or glass, can pierce the body and damage the spinal cord.

What Puts Riders at Greater Risk

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA),  motorcyclists are more than 20 times more likely to die in a motor vehicle crash than passenger vehicle occupants. There are factors that make some riders more likely to suffer severe injury or death, such as:

• High speeds: The faster you ride down the street, the harder the impact. In turn, there is a higher chance of severe injuries.
• No protective gear: Helmets, padded jackets, and other gear make a big difference in preventing serious injuries.
• Collisions with larger vehicles: If you are hit by a car or truck, their size and weight make the impact much more dangerous.
• Being thrown: If you are ejected from your motorcycle, the landing can cause significant spinal or head trauma.
• Poor riding conditions: Wet roads, loose gravel, or poor visibility increase the likelihood of accidents and serious injuries.

What Happens After a Spinal Cord Injury?

If a motorcycle accident results in a spinal cord injury, the effects might be immediate or take hours to become noticeable. You might experience:

• Loss of movement or sensation in your limbs
• Weakness or numbness in your arms or legs
• Intense pain or pressure in your neck or back
• Trouble breathing, especially with neck injuries
• Loss of bladder or bowel control

These symptoms can change your life in an instant. But with quick medical attention, some injuries can be treated before they become worse. For that reason, even if you feel okay after a crash, you will want to get checked out.

Living with Paralysis

This is a life-altering condition that affects more than just mobility. It changes how you work, play, and interact with the world. If you’ve sustained a spinal cord injury, physical therapy will be a major part of your recovery. While it may not restore full function, it can help you regain strength and independence. Unfortunately, paralysis often requires assistive devices like wheelchairs or braces. Many people also modify their homes to include ramps or lifts. Don’t forget about the emotional impact. Coping with paralysis can be overwhelming. Many people find counseling or support groups helpful for dealing with the emotional side of recovery. The financial strain can be immense between medical bills, lost income, and the cost of long-term care. You will want to know your legal rights if someone else was responsible for the accident.

Get Legal Help for a Motorcycle Crash Claim

Yes, motorcycle accidents can cause paralysis. This is one of the most devastating consequences of a crash that a rider can face. At Western Justice Associates, PLLC, we know that these crashes can affect both the rider and their family. If you have been affected by a motorcycle accident, we are available for a consultation.