The Top 5 Most Common Bicycle Accident Injuries

Bicycling is an excellent way to stay active and healthy, but it can also be dangerous.

Every year, thousands of cyclists are injured or killed in accidents. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a beginner, it’s essential to be aware of the most common bicycle accident injuries so that you can take steps to prevent them.

Let’s examine the most common bicycle accident injuries and some prevention tips. If you’ve already been injured in a biking accident, you need the legal aid of a Milwaukee bicycle accident lawyer at Welcenbach Injury Law to get the compensation you’re entitled to.

What Are the Most Common Bicycle Accident Injuries?

1. Head Injuries

Head injuries are one of the most common bicycle accident injuries. These injuries can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage or death. Head injuries are one of the biggest risks for cyclists.

The good news is that wearing a helmet can significantly reduce the risk of head injuries, but it’s crucial to wear a helmet that fits and is adjusted correctly. A helmet should sit low on your forehead and be level, with no more than two fingers’ width between the helmet and your eyebrows. If you’ve been in an accident, replacing your helmet is important, even if it appears undamaged.

2. Road Rash

Road rash is another common injury that cyclists can sustain in an accident. It occurs when a cyclist falls or slides on pavement, causing friction and burns on their skin. Road rash can range from mild scrapes to deep cuts that require stitches. In some cases, road rash can also cause infections.

To prevent road rash, it’s important to wear protective clothing while cycling. Long pants and sleeves can help protect your skin from abrasions. Gloves and knee pads can also provide additional protection. If you sustain road rash, seek medical attention so your provider can clean the wound thoroughly and apply an antibiotic ointment to prevent infection.

3. Broken Bones

Broken bones are also a common injury that cyclists can sustain in an accident. These injuries can range from minor fractures to severe breaks that require surgery. The most commonly broken bones in bicycle accidents are the collarbone, wrist, and ankle.

To prevent broken bones, it’s important to wear protective gear such as knee pads and elbow pads. These pads can help absorb the impact of a fall and protect your joints from injury. If you do sustain a broken bone, seek medical attention immediately.

4. Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries, such as sprains and strains, can also happen in bicycle accidents. These injuries can be caused by sudden movements or impacts on the body. Soft tissue injuries can cause pain, swelling, and reduced mobility.

To prevent soft tissue injuries, it’s important to stretch before and after cycling to warm up and cool down your muscles. It’s also crucial to wear proper footwear with good arch support and shock-absorbing soles. Rest and physical therapy can help you heal if you sustain a soft tissue injury.

5. Spinal Cord Injuries

Back injuries are one of the most severe types of injury that cyclists can sustain in an accident. It can cause paralysis, loss of sensation, and even death. It’s crucial to wear a helmet and protective gear to reduce the risk of spinal cord injuries.

To prevent spinal cord injuries, follow traffic rules and be aware of your surroundings. It’s also important to ensure that your bike is in good condition and that you’re using proper hand signals when turning or changing lanes. If you’ve been in an accident and experience any symptoms of a spinal cord injury, such as numbness or tingling in your arms or legs, seek medical attention immediately.

Mental and Emotional Effects of Bicycle Accidents

In addition to physical injuries, bicycle accidents can also psychologically affect cyclists. The pain and suffering that often results from this type of accident can cause depression, anxiety, and fear of cycling, leading to a reduced quality of life.

It’s important to seek support from family, friends, or a mental health professional if you’re experiencing any psychological effects after a bicycle accident.

Tips for Preventing Bicycle Accidents

In addition to taking the steps above, it’s also important to consider the environment in which you’re cycling. Factors such as road conditions, weather, and traffic volume can all impact your cycling safety.

For example, cycling in wet or icy conditions can be more dangerous due to reduced traction on the road. Similarly, cycling in heavy traffic can be more challenging because drivers may be less aware of cyclists. It’s essential to be aware of these factors and adjust your cycling accordingly.

Another important consideration is the use of bike lanes and other cycling infrastructure. Many roadways have designated bike lanes intended to provide a safer space for cyclists to ride. It’s important to use these lanes when available and to be aware of other cyclists on the road.

Hurt in a Bike Crash? Contact a Milwaukee Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today

People love cycling. After all, it is an excellent way to stay active and healthy. But it’s essential to be aware of the most common bicycle accident injuries and take steps to prevent them. By wearing proper protective gear, following traffic rules, and being aware of your surroundings, you can reduce your risk of injury while cycling.

If you’ve been in an accident, your first priority should be to seek medical attention immediately. Then, call Welcenbach Injury Law in Milwaukee and we’ll ensure your rights are observed, and you get the best possible outcome for your personal injury case. Contact us today to book your free consultation.