NYC Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Representing Riders in Crashes that Resulted in Brain Injuries
Even when wearing a helmet, a motorcyclist is at risk for a traumatic brain injury (TBI), which can have a physical, emotional and financial effect on its victim. Although less than 10% of injured riders suffer serious TBIs, those diagnosed with severe brain injuries may need costly medical treatment and extensive rehabilitation. Additionally, about half of patients who sustain brain injuries in motorcycle accidents will need extended care. Motorcycle riders who sustain serious brain injuries are also more likely to die as a result, placing a heavy emotional and financial burden on their loved ones.
At Block O’Toole & Murphy, our NYC motorcycle accident lawyers understand the hardships a traumatic brain injury victim can encounter following their accident. To receive a FREE case review from one of our motorcycle accident attorneys in New York, complete our FREE case review form on this page.
New York Helmet Laws
In the event of a crash, motorcycle riders, even those that wear helmets, are more likely to sustain brain injuries to the front of the head, damaging the area of the brain that controls speech and higher functions. Riders without helmets are at risk for penetrating head injuries, in which an object pierces the skull, damaging the soft tissue of the brain. Because a rider’s chances of death and serious injury are higher when not wearing a helmet, New York has enacted strict motorcycle helmet laws, making it illegal for anyone to operate or ride a motorcycle without a protective helmet.
Although a helmet can help protect a rider’s head and brain, it does not completely eliminate a rider’s risk of suffering a brain injury in a motorcycle crash. Riders are encouraged to take precautionary measures to reduce their risk of a motorcycle accident. For instance, riders should check their bikes before a ride; adjust the tire pressure when carrying another rider; wear gloves, boots and other protective clothing; and make adjustments according to road and weather conditions.
Effects of a Traumatic Brain Injury
A motorcycle accident victim who sustains a traumatic brain injury will likely incur a wide range of difficulties as a result of their crash. Common problems associated with traumatic brain injuries include:
- Difficulty communicating
- Personality changes
- Mood disorders
- Trouble concentrating
- Difficulty learning new things
- Persistent anxiety
Unlike other organs, the brain cannot heal itself; therefore, brain injuries often cause permanent problems that can cost thousands of dollars to manage. As a result, the victim and their family often incur a severe financial burden due to the cost of brain injury treatment. If you or a loved one sustained a traumatic brain injury in a New York motorcycle crash, it’s important to find an experienced motorcycle accident attorney who can seek compensation proportional to your financial losses.
At Block O’Toole & Murphy, we work with a number of medical and economic specialists to ensure our clients are properly compensated for their injuries and resulting losses. We perform a complete evaluation of our client’s injuries and expectations for recovery. If you or a loved one has suffered a TBI in a New York motorcycle accident, our personal injury attorneys are ready to review your case. Contact us today for a FREE evaluation of your claim. Serving Manhattan, The Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens and all of NYC and NY State.