Burn Injuries in a Motorcycle Accident

Burn Injuries in a Motorcycle Accident

A motorcycle accident can lead to numerous injuries and one of the most common is a severe burn. Those who ride motorcycles have minimal protection between themselves and the pavement. This lack of protection makes them particularly susceptible to serious injuries, including burns. Like other injuries, burns can range in severity. It is important for everyone who rides a motorcycle to understand how burns can happen in a motorcycle accident and what the consequences of this serious injury might be.

How Do Burns Happen in a Motorcycle Accident?

In general, there are two different ways that people might sustain a burn injury in a motorcycle accident. These include:

Exhaust Burn Injuries: An exhaust burn can happen in a motorcycle crash when someone makes physical contact with the exhaust pipe of the motorcycle. Due to the lack of separation between the rider and the motorcycle, this can happen if someone falls from their motorcycle. Often, these burn injuries occur on one of the legs and can lead to permanent scarring. In addition, these burns are often second or even third-degree burns depending on the temperature of the exhaust pipe.

Burns from Mechanical or Gas Fires: The other type of burn injury that someone might sustain in a motorcycle collision is from a direct mechanical or gas fire. When a motorcycle collides with another vehicle or object, flammable fluids may spill from one or both vehicles. When these fluids come into a heat source, they can ignite, leading to a serious explosion. Combustion of flammable fluids can also occur from loose wires that cause a spark. Fire from explosions can cause a wide range of burn injuries. They might even be fatal.

Clearly, burn injuries in a motorcycle accident can be serious. It is important for everyone to know how these injuries are treated.

The Treatment of a Serious Burn Injury

Following a motorcycle accident that leads to serious injuries, it is important for everyone to seek medical care as quickly as possible. A trained professional will assess the burn injury and categorize it based on its severity. A first-degree burn typically impacts only the top layer of the skin. In contrast, a second-degree burn is far more painful and often leads to blistering of the skin. There might even be open sores. If someone has a third-degree burn, the tissue is often charred, and subcutaneous tissues (such as bone, nerves, and blood vessels) might be exposed.

The medical doctor will probably start by applying cool water or cool compresses to the injury site to try and relieve some pain. The doctor will avoid ice-cold water or ice packs as this may lead to further tissue damage. After this, the injury site will be covered with a non-stick dressing. Creams and lotions are often avoided because these can inhibit the healing process.

In addition to all of this, the doctor may decide to administer antibiotics. The skin is the body’s first line of defense against infections. With the skin broken, an infection can develop. Finally, the doctor will also provide medicine to control pain and discomfort. This may include anti-inflammatory medications, such as Tylenol, and narcotic medications, such as Morphine.

Complications Following a Burn Injury

Severe burn injuries such as those discussed above can lead to a variety of complications. Some of these include:

Permanent Scarring: Often, burns lead to permanent disfigurement. Even though the skin will heal, a permanent scar might be present. This can lead to emotional distress; however, scars can be treated by plastic and cosmetic surgeons.

Infections: As mentioned above, the skin is the body’s defense against bacteria and viruses. When this layer is broken so severely, serious infections can develop. This can prolong the recovery time and may require treatment with IV antibiotics

Associated Injuries: Associated injuries can also result following burns. Damage to nerves can lead to numbness, tingling, and issues with mobility. Damage to blood vessels can make it hard for tissue to recover.

Fortunately, trained medical specialists can address all of these complications and assist someone during the recovery process. Remember that trained professionals are standing by to help those in need.

Sacramento Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento Motorcycle Accident Lawyer. Burn injuries following a motorcycle accident can lead to a long recovery process. If someone you know has suffered burn injuries in a motorcycle accident due to the negligence of another person or entity, please call me today at (415) 805-7284 or (800) 404-5400 for free, friendly legal advice.