Motorcycle Riding May Lead to Higher Risk of Injuring Your Lower Extremities

While riding a motorcycle is exciting and adventurous, there are many risks involved due to the size of the vehicle and the rider’s exposure. Before anyone drives a motorcycle, they need to be aware of the dangers they may experience, including common motorcycle injuries, to prepare for unexpected situations. An accident can cause severe, life-threatening injuries. Some of the most common injuries a motorcyclist can suffer from are lower extremity injuries located from the hip to the toes.

A study conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) stated that while lower-extremity injuries were more common, upper-body injuries tend to be more severe. However, this does not mean that lower extremity injuries can’t be damaging. The harm inflicted to the lower region of the body can significantly impact your ability to perform your regular tasks.

Types of Lower Extremity Injuries

The lower extremity area includes the entire leg, making leg injuries a significant concern for motorcyclists. The hip, knee, and ankle joints are all a part of the lower extremity, as well as the bones of the thigh, leg, and foot. When a rider is in an accident, the awkward position of the legs causes muscle strain, broken bones, and other serious injuries. Some of the injuries that a motorcycle accident can cause to the lower extremities include:

broken leg
hip injuries
knee injuries
ankle injuries
foot injuries
amputations
crushing injuries
road rash

Foot injury is particularly common and can range from minor fractures to severe damage requiring extensive medical treatment.

From hobbies to job responsibilities, an injury to your lower extremity can stop you from engaging in the activities you previously enjoyed. In some cases, these injuries can lead to chronic pain, significantly affecting the quality of life and requiring long-term medical care. Contact a personal injury attorney for legal assistance after an accident that causes a serious injury to the lower extremity area.

Causes of Motorcycle Accidents Leading to Lower Extremity Injuries

Understanding the causes of motorcycle accidents is crucial in preventing lower extremity injuries. Various factors can contribute to these accidents, each posing a significant risk to motorcyclists. Here are some of the most common causes:

Reckless Driving: Speeding, tailgating, and aggressive driving behaviors can drastically increase the likelihood of a motorcycle accident. Such reckless actions often result in severe lower extremity injuries, including broken bones and muscle strains.
Distracted Driving: When drivers are distracted by their phones, passengers, or other factors, they may fail to notice motorcyclists on the road. This lack of attention can lead to collisions that cause serious lower extremity injuries.
Failure to Yield: Intersections are particularly dangerous for motorcyclists. Drivers who fail to yield the right of way can cause accidents that result in significant lower extremity injuries, such as knee injuries and foot injuries.
Poor Road Conditions: Potholes, uneven surfaces, and other hazardous road conditions can cause motorcyclists to lose control. These accidents often lead to lower extremity injuries, including ankle injuries and crushing injuries.
Vehicle Defects: Defective motorcycle parts, such as faulty brakes or tires, can increase the risk of an accident. When a motorcycle malfunctions, it can result in lower extremity injuries, such as thigh injuries and hip injuries.
Weather Conditions: Inclement weather, like rain or snow, makes roads slippery and more dangerous. Motorcyclists are at a higher risk of accidents in these conditions, which can lead to severe lower extremity injuries.

By recognizing these common causes, motorcyclists can take proactive steps to avoid accidents and protect their lower extremities.

Prevention and Safety Measures

While motorcycle accidents can be unpredictable, there are several prevention and safety measures that motorcyclists can take to reduce the risk of lower extremity injuries:

Wear Protective Gear: Always wear protective gear, including helmets, gloves, and sturdy boots. This gear can significantly reduce the risk of head injuries and lower extremity injuries in the event of an accident.
Take a Motorcycle Safety Course: Enrolling in a motorcycle safety course can equip you with essential skills and knowledge to ride safely. These courses teach defensive riding techniques that can help you avoid accidents.
Maintain Your Motorcycle: Regular maintenance of your motorcycle is crucial. Ensure that all parts, especially brakes and tires, are in good working condition to reduce the risk of accidents and subsequent lower extremity injuries.
Ride Defensively: Always ride with a defensive mindset. Anticipate the actions of other drivers and stay aware of your surroundings. This approach can help you avoid potential accidents and protect your lower extremities.
Avoid Distractions: Stay focused on the road and avoid distractions, such as using your phone while riding. Keeping your attention on the road can help you react quickly to potential hazards and prevent accidents.
Follow Traffic Laws: Adhering to traffic laws, including speed limits and right-of-way rules, is essential. Following these laws can help you avoid accidents and reduce the risk of lower extremity injuries.

By understanding the causes of motorcycle accidents and implementing these safety measures, motorcyclists can significantly reduce their risk of lower extremity injuries and stay safe on the road.

Am I Eligible to Recover Compensation for My Lower Extremity Injury?

If you sustain injuries from motorcycle accidents due to someone else’s negligent actions, you can seek compensation for the losses you incur. An accident, especially motorcycle crashes, can cause injuries and property damage that require medical and auto assistance. A personal injury lawyer can help you recover some of the following:

Cost of hospital bills and treatments
Physical therapy, rehabilitation, and pain management bills
Prescription medication
Medical transportation
Increased living expenses
Lost wages or income
Property damage expenses

Whether you need a new vehicle or emergency help, the cost of these services can be expensive. Working with a determined attorney for legal advice can significantly improve your likelihood of receiving a positive outcome for your case.

Trust an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney at Younglove Law Group Today

An accident often causes stress and frustration. When someone else’s reckless behavior causes you to suffer dangerous injuries from motorcycle crashes that impact your future, you can hold the other person accountable for their actions. Recovering compensation for the financial losses you incur due to the accident can significantly help your rehabilitation. Focusing on your recovery without stressing about the cost of hospital bills or pain medication is crucial.

Our team at has years of experience advocating for our clients’ rights and intentions after sustaining life-threatening injuries. We’ve helped recover over $40 million for past clients, and with positive testimonials and results, we can confidently say that we can assist you with your personal injury claim.

Call (949) 691-3660 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation today.