Bicycle accidents can result in substantial injuries for riders, who may have little to no protection from collisions. Unfortunately, these injuries often result in costly medical treatments and missing wages. Take a look at these common injuries from bicycle accidents in Chicago and learn how a bicycle accident attorney could help you seek compensation.
Many bicycle riders will suffer strains and sprains in their accidents, which can interfere with mobility and make it difficult for them to continue working. Sprains and strains can require surgical treatment and ongoing physical therapy.
Broken bones are one of the most common injuries from bicycle accidents in Chicago. Many bike riders suffer multiple broken bones, which can lead to significant impairments in mobility. Some broken bones can render it impossible for the injured cyclist to complete their usual work responsibilities. In addition, severe broken bones can require substantial medical treatment and surgery.
Some bicycle accidents result in severe cuts and lacerations. Not only can these wounds prevent the injured person from working and introduce the risk of infection, but severe lacerations may lead to permanent scarring that can have an immense impact on the injured party’s self-esteem.
Severe road rash is common after bike accidents and may require ongoing medical care, including skin grafts. Road rash can also lead to permanent scarring or loss of mobility around the affected area, especially when near a joint.
Head injuries are common in Chicago bike accidents and can result in loss of ability to focus, memory challenges, and difficulty regulating emotions. Often, symptoms of minor brain injuries will linger for a year or more after an accident, leaving injured cyclists unable to complete their usual work responsibilities. Riders with severe traumatic brain injuries may need ongoing care, including occupational therapy, to learn how to cope with their limitations.
While the use of one can substantially decrease the risk of head and neck injuries in an accident, Illinois law does not require bike riders to wear a helmet. Because of this, whether an injured rider was wearing a helmet at the time of a crash does not impact their ability to file a claim.
Back and neck injuries are also common after bike accidents in Chicago and can cause considerable complications for the injured individual, whether they sustain bulging discs, muscle damage, or, in severe cases, spinal cord injuries. Back and neck injuries can require surgical treatment and a long recovery period, during which the injured individual may not be able to work.
Individuals who suffer spinal cord injuries may end up with full or partial paralysis after a bicycle accident. Such individuals often need considerable, ongoing medical care and may not be able to return to their previous profession.
If you were in a wreck caused by the negligence of another individual and sustained one of these common injuries from bicycle accidents in Chicago, filing a claim could help you seek compensation. A seasoned personal injury lawyer could help you build your case, showcasing the full extent of the financial and non-financial losses you suffered after your accident. Do not try to handle your claim alone. Reach out to McCready Law today to learn more about your rights after an accident.