The exhilaration of the open road, the wind in your face, the sense of freedom—these are the joys of riding a motorcycle. But a crash can instantly turn that joy into devastation, especially when it causes a spinal cord injury. Spinal damage is one of the most common and devastating motorcycle crash injuries.
At the Law Office of Matthew A. Lathrop, PC, LLO, our Iowa personal injury lawyers understand the life-altering impact of spinal cord injuries. We've guided countless injured motorcyclists through the legal process and fought for the compensation they need to move forward. Here’s why motorcycle accidents often lead to spinal trauma and what to do if you or a loved one gets hurt.
Motorcyclists are Uniquely Vulnerable
Riding a motorcycle comes with inherent risks. While the freedom of the open road appeals to many enthusiasts, that same lack of enclosure exposes riders to severe injuries in a motorcycle crash. Several factors increase the likelihood of spinal cord damage:
- No barriers between rider and road. In a passenger vehicle crash, the metal frame, airbags, and seat belts provide some protection against spinal trauma. Motorcyclists have no such barriers. When thrown from a bike, the rider's body absorbs the full force of impact with the ground, other vehicles, or stationary objects.
- Extreme forces on the spine. The sudden deceleration in a motorcycle crash puts immense stress on the spinal column. The force of being ejected from the bike can cause vertebrae to fracture, discs to rupture, and ligaments to tear. Damage to the spinal cord itself may occur due to direct trauma, compression from displaced bone fragments or herniated discs, or loss of blood supply.
- Lack of head support. While helmets are crucial for reducing the risk of traumatic brain injury, they can't fully protect the neck. The head is a heavy structure, and the violent snapping motions in a crash put extreme strain on the neck vertebrae and soft tissues.
- Crush injuries from the motorcycle. In some crashes, the bike itself can land on top of the ejected rider. The weight of the motorcycle can crush the spine, causing catastrophic damage. This is particularly common in accidents where a larger vehicle strikes the motorcycle from the side, knocking it over onto the rider.
Motorcycle Accident Spinal Cord Injury Types
A spinal cord injury can occur at any level, from the neck to the lower back. Some of the most common types of spinal injuries in motorcycle crashes include:
- Cervical spine injuries. The cervical region (neck) is the most mobile part of the spine and the most vulnerable to injury. Damage here affects the head, neck, shoulders, arms, and diaphragm. In severe cases, a cervical spinal cord injury can cause paralysis below the neck (quadriplegia).
- Thoracic spine injuries. The thoracic spine (upper back) has less mobility and more structural protection than the cervical region. However, high-impact collisions can still cause significant damage. Thoracic spinal cord injuries affect the torso, legs, and bowel/bladder function. Paraplegia (paralysis below the waist) is a potential outcome.
- Lumbar spine injuries. The lumbar spine (lower back) bears the weight of the upper body and is a common injury site in motorcycle crashes. Lumbar spinal cord damage affects the hips, groin, thighs, and lower legs. Injuries may cause weakness, numbness, or paralysis in the lower extremities and loss of bowel/bladder control.
Long-Term Effects of Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord damage leads to numerous symptoms, many of which become permanent. While medical advances have improved outcomes, many survivors face lifelong challenges, including:
- Physical disabilities. Partial or total paralysis, chronic pain, loss of sensation, muscle spasms, and difficulties with bowel/bladder function are common.
- Emotional trauma. Depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) frequently accompany spinal cord injuries.
- Financial strain. The cost of medical care, adaptive equipment, home modifications, and ongoing therapy can be astronomical. Many survivors cannot return to their previous employment, and some can no longer work in any capacity.
- Relationship changes. Spinal cord injuries affect the entire family. Roles and dynamics may shift as loved ones become caregivers. Intimacy and social interaction can become challenging.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Crash Spinal Cord Injury
After a motorcycle crash injury, you face a long road to recovery and an uncertain future. While nothing can erase the trauma you've experienced, taking the proper steps can help protect your legal rights and secure the resources you need moving forward:
- Seek immediate medical attention. Prompt treatment can limit the extent of spinal cord damage. Follow all medical recommendations and attend follow-up appointments. Keep detailed records of your care.
- Preserve evidence from the crash. Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and damage to your motorcycle and gear if possible. Get contact information for any witnesses. Keep your clothing, helmet, and bike in their post-crash condition.
- Watch what you say to insurers. Insurance adjusters may try to get you to admit fault or downplay your injuries. Politely decline to give a recorded statement and direct further communication to your lawyer.
- Consult an Iowa personal injury attorney. Motorcycle crash cases involving spinal cord injuries are usually complicated. You need an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer who understands your unique challenges and how to fight for the full, fair compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury in an Iowa motorcycle crash, the Law Office of Matthew A. Lathrop is here to help. Our legal team has extensive experience handling catastrophic injury claims. We work with trusted medical experts and accident reconstruction specialists to build strong cases for our clients. While no amount of money can undo the harm you've suffered, we'll fight to hold those at fault accountable and secure the resources you need for lifelong care and support.