Knowing What to Do Post-Accident
Motorcycle accidents, especially in bustling cityscapes like Philadelphia, often result in severe injuries due to riders' lack of protection compared to occupants of cars or trucks. Understanding the common injuries that can occur after a motorcycle accident can be helpful for victims and their families, especially when it comes to understanding the necessity of seeking medical attention and consulting with legal representation after an accident.
As a Philadelphia-based personal injury firm, Golomb Legal. is committed to helping injured people through the difficult post-accident process. This blog post aims to offer clear, concise information to aid in your recovery and legal journey.
The Crucial Role of Helmets and Recognizing Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
Even though PA does not require helmets for riders over 21 and who have either two years of riding experience or have completed a PennDOT-approved motorcycle safety course, it is recommended that you wear one at all times when riding. Head injuries can have a profound effect on motorcycle accident victims. We cannot overstate the importance of wearing a helmet when riding a motorcycle.
Helmets substantially reduce the risk of head injuries and are often the difference between a minor injury and a life-altering condition.
In particular, traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a serious concern in motorcycle accidents. TBIs affect thousands of people each year, especially those involved in motorcycle accidents. If you or a loved one is a frequent motorcyclist, it's crucial to be familiar with the signs and symptoms of TBI.
TBI symptoms can include:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Cognitive issues
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
Seek immediate medical attention if you or a loved one exhibits any of these symptoms after a motorcycle accident.
Understanding Spinal Cord Injuries: Impact on Mobility and Daily Life
Spinal cord injuries, unfortunately, are common after a motorcycle accident and can significantly impact the victim's mobility and daily life. These types of injuries primarily fall into two categories: complete and incomplete spinal cord injuries. A complete spinal cord injury results in total loss of sensation and motor function below the injury site, while an incomplete injury means that there is still some function below the injury level.
Life post-injury can be challenging, as victims may face limitations in movement, chronic pain, or even paralysis. The extent of these changes often depends on the severity of the injury and the part of the spinal cord that was damaged. Adjusting to these changes requires time, medical intervention, and, often, extensive physical therapy.
Early Diagnosis and Treatment: The Key to Better Recovery
The importance of early diagnosis and treatment for spinal cord injuries cannot be emphasized enough. Immediate medical attention can help limit damage, reduce complications, and increase the chances of recovery. Assessment tools such as CT scans, MRIs, and neurological examinations are used to diagnose the injury accurately. Once diagnosed, various treatment approaches, including surgery, medication, and rehabilitation, are employed to manage the condition and improve the patient's quality of life.
If you were in a motorcycle accident, it is vital that you seek medical evaluation as soon as possible, even if you do not feel injured.
Seek Legal Assistance: A Critical Step in the Post-Accident Journey
If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, engaging the services of a personal injury attorney can be incredibly helpful and beneficial. Your attorney will not only help you understand your rights, but they can also offer invaluable assistance in the aftermath of your accident, including in dealing with insurance companies, healthcare providers, and more.
A seasoned personal injury attorney can undertake a wide range of tasks on your behalf, including:
- Determining whether another party's negligence caused your accident
- Negotiating with insurance companies
- Representing you in settlement negotiations
- Representing you in court should you decide to file a lawsuit
Remember, time is of the essence in these situations. The sooner you consult with a personal injury attorney, the better they can preserve evidence, interview witnesses, and start building a robust case on your behalf. At Golomb Legal., we are committed to supporting victims of motorcycle accidents and their families. We believe in your right to seek justice and compensation and are here to help you every step of the way.
Contact us online to set up a consultation with one of our Philadelphia-based personal injury lawyers today.