Florida has one of the highest motorcycle accident rates in the country and the highest fatality rate. One common type of injury from a motorcycle crash is road rash, also called road burn. Road rash may not seem as severe as other types of injuries, but it can cause long-lasting emotional and physical pain and distress. 
Motorcycle Road Rash Injuries
If you are thrown off your motorcycle during a crash, you may experience road rash from exposed skin scraping against the pavement, gravel, or other road surfaces. More severe injuries can occur such as open wounds, broken bones, and bruising. In addition, dirt, gravel, debris, and broken glass can become imbedded in the skin.
Bikers who don’t wear full protective gear or get dragged a long distance during an accident often suffer road rash, particularly to the face, arms, palms, legs, thighs, and shoulders. More serious cases of road rash include open wounds that may require stitches, plastic surgery, and skin grafts. Road rash can be serious if it leads to other complications, including:
- Infection
- Nerve and muscle damage
- Internal bleeding
- Long-term scarring and disfigurement
Road rash is classified based on the severity of the burn:
- First degree affects the outer layer of the skin and results in superficial scrapes or scratches. It’s considered a minor injury that’s treatable with soap and water and antibiotic ointment.
- Second degree occurs when the top layer of the skin is cut or torn and exposes the next layer of skin. Typically, there is no scarring.
- Third degree is the most severe and happens when the top layers of skin are peeled back, exposing underlying tissue. Scarring is likely, and the patient may need skin grafts and/or reconstructive surgery.
What to Do After an Accident
If you suffered road rash in a motorcycle crash that wasn’t your fault, there are several things to do after the accident, including:
- Seek medical attention
- Obtain a copy of the police report
- Gather evidence from the accident scene, if possible
- Do not talk to insurance adjusters without first consulting with an accident attorney
Motorcycle Accident Damages
Road rash from a motorcycle accident can cause emotional and physical pain and suffering. Contacting an attorney immediately after your accident can help protect your legal rights and ensure you get a fair settlement for your case. An attorney can negotiate with insurance companies, collect evidence for your case, calculate damages, and help if your case goes to court.
If someone else’s negligence caused your motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for the following:
- Medical expenses and treatments
- Loss of income and benefits
- Loss of future earnings
- Pain and suffering
Contact a Florida Motorcycle Accident Attorney
If you suffered road rash from a motorcycle accident due to the negligence of another party, contact Browning Law Firm for a free, no obligation consultation. To schedule an appointment, fill out our convenient contact form, or call us today.
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