Motorcyclists: Avoiding the Agony of Road Rash

Today there are over 400,000 motorcycles registered in the state of Texas alone, and of course many who pass through Houston are visitors from other areas too. You may enjoy your motorcycle to commute, but also as a great vehicle for getting out into the fresh air, taking road trips, and enjoying the freedom of riding unfettered by 4,000 pounds of a metal car. Motorcyclists enjoy a long list of advantages, even if they just ride on the weekends or here and there. With every ride comes a full-body workout, the exhilaration of being outdoors, and the unique sense of camaraderie felt with other riders—even if just through a nod, a wave, or a quick chat at a red light or other stop. There are economic benefits too, from the initial cost of buying a motorcycle in comparison to a vehicle, less insurance cost, and usually less maintenance and gas expense too. None of the above benefits matter much though if proper safety precautions aren’t taken, and this begins with protective gear. The helmet is an obvious starting point, and although it may be a common point of controversy, in wearing one you are saving yourself from the potential of a serious concussion or a traumatic brain injury. Road rash is another huge consideration in the case of a fall or an accident while on your motorcycle, and without a helmet it could affect your face and neck; facial fractures are another hazard too if you do not wear a helmet. Any of these issues could cause scarring or disfigurement. To avoid the nightmare of road rash though, suit up in a protective jacket or coveralls, gloves, and boots. While there is the chance of serious injury in the case that you are hit by a negligent driver, as much protective covering as possible could prevent the extremely painful skin abrasions often caused by road rash. It can range from feeling scraped up and having an uncomfortable burning sensation afterward to a very serious condition with a large portion of the fragile epidermis scraped off. In some cases, skin grafts may even be required during treatment. Road rash can also affect travelers who may get into an accident while bicycling or jogging. If you have been injured in an accident due to the negligence of others, this is not the time to go it alone! Please call the law offices of Andrew ‘Pike’ Piekalkiewicz, PLLC as soon as possible at (713) 748-7453 or visit AttorneySgtPike for a no obligation case review.