Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Head injuries are one of the most common and severe injuries someone can suffer in a bicycle accident. When a vehicle strikes a bicyclist, that cyclist may get thrown off the bicycle and hit his or her head on the ground or other object. Common symptoms of a head injury include confusion, headaches, dizziness, nausea and loss of consciousness. Head injuries require prompt medical care.
Common Head Injuries in a Bicycle Accident
Bicyclists can suffer various types of head injuries in an accident. Some of them may be fairly minor while others can be life-threatening. Here are common head injuries in a bicycle accident.
- Concussions. Concussions are head injuries that cause the brain to move back and forth rapidly. Although these head injuries are often categorized as mild traumatic brain injuries, they can still be quite severe. They can cause memory loss, cognitive difficulties and personality changes. While concussion symptoms generally subside within a couple of weeks after an accident, some people can suffer symptoms for months after the bicycle accident.
- Hematomas. Bicyclists can also sustain hematomas in accidents, which cause bleeding in the brain. Since this can increase intracranial pressure, it can be life-threatening. The pressure on the brain can cause brain damage and impair a person’s ability to breathe. That is why prompt medical attention is critical.
- Skull fractures. Although the skull is strong, it can still suffer trauma in an accident. These fractures can cause cracks in the skull and can lead to bleeding, brain damage, seizures and other serious complications that require medical treatment.
How to Prevent Head Injuries
Since head injuries can be very serious, you want to do everything you can to avoid them when riding a bicycle. Here are a few ways to reduce your risk of suffering a head injury in a bicycle accident.
- Fall correctly. The way you fall during a bicycle accident may prevent head injuries and other serious injuries. Try not to fall on your hands. Instead, curl up and keep your knees against your chest.
- Obey traffic laws. Bicyclists are expected to follow the same traffic laws as motorists, including stopping at red lights, riding in the same direction as traffic and using turn signals. Cyclists who adhere to these rules are less likely to get into an accident.
- Wear a helmet. While helmets might not look very fashionable, they are necessary to wear when riding a bicycle. They can protect your head against severe head injuries in the event of a collision.
Recovering Compensation in a Bicycle Accident
If you sustained a head injury in a bicycle accident caused by another motorist, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages and other losses. It is important to speak with a bicycle accident lawyer, about your case as soon as possible. An experienced lawyer will know the true value of your case and help you pursue maximum compensation.
