The Most Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

The freedom of the open road, the wind in your hair — it’s why so many riders in Clackamas love motorcycles. But in a split second, that freedom can turn into tragedy. A careless driver doesn’t see you, a slick road sends you skidding, or a sudden impact throws you off your bike. The injuries that follow can be devastating — broken bones, head trauma, and road rash that leaves scars long after the crash. The road to recovery is long, painful, and expensive, but you don’t have to face it alone.

If you've been injured while riding, our Clackamas motorcycle accident lawyers can fight to win you the most money possible for your injuries and damages. Understanding common motorcycle injuries is the first step toward protecting yourself on the road and in the aftermath of an accident.

Motorcycle Accident Stats in Oregon

​In Oregon, motorcycle-related injuries and fatalities have shown an alarming increase over recent years. According to the 2022 Oregon Traffic Crash Summary, there were 1,016 motorcycle crashes in 2022, resulting in 1,059 injuries and 101 fatalities. This marks a significant rise from previous years, with 915 crashes and 84 fatalities in 2021 and 786 crashes with 71 fatalities in 2020. Notably, in 2022, 881 of those injured and 98 of those killed were motorcyclists themselves, underscoring the heightened risks riders face on Oregon's roads.

#1 Lower Extremities

The legs, knees, ankles, and feet are among the most frequently injured body parts in motorcycle crashes. These injuries often occur when a rider’s lower body is pinned under the motorcycle, under a vehicle, or collides with the pavement.

• Fractures: Many require surgery, metal implants, and prolonged rehabilitation.
• Road rash: When skin scrapes against the pavement, it can lead to painful abrasions, infections, and permanent scarring.
• Nerve and muscle damage: Severe impact may cause long-term mobility issues.

#2 Upper Extremities

Riders instinctively extend their arms to break their fall, leading to significant injuries from a motorcycle accident.

• Rotator cuff tears & shoulder dislocations: Impact often leads to soft tissue injuries that require physical therapy or surgery.
• Broken arms, wrists, and fingers: Fractures and sprains are common.
• Elbow injuries: Dislocations and fractures can cause chronic pain and stiffness.

Protective gloves and reinforced jackets can reduce the severity of motorcycle accident injuries, but they cannot eliminate the risk entirely.

#3 Thorax (Chest)

The chest houses vital organs, making injuries in this area particularly dangerous.

• Rib fractures: Broken ribs can puncture lungs or damage internal organs.
• Lung contusions: Bruising from the impact may cause respiratory complications.
• Pneumothorax: A collapsed lung requires emergency medical attention.
• Heart and aorta damage: Blunt force trauma can result in life-threatening conditions.

#4 Head

Despite helmet laws, head injuries remain one of the most devastating consequences of motorcycle crashes.

• Concussions: Ranging from mild to severe, they can lead to cognitive impairments.
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): Can affect memory, coordination, and speech.
• Skull fractures & brain bleeding: Often require emergency surgery and long-term rehabilitation.
• Seizures & chronic headaches: Common long-term effects of TBIs.

Signs of a head injury include loss of consciousness, nausea, vomiting, slurred speech, and persistent headaches. If any of these symptoms occur, immediate medical attention is necessary.

#5 Face and Neck

Facial and neck injuries occur frequently, especially in crashes where riders wear helmets without full-face protection.

• Fractured facial bones: Broken noses, cheekbones, and jawbones are common.
• Dental trauma: Riders may suffer from broken or lost teeth.
• Eye injuries: Ocular trauma can lead to permanent vision damage.
• Neck injuries: Whiplash, cervical spine fractures, and nerve damage can cause chronic pain and mobility issues.

#6 Abdomen

Abdominal injuries can be particularly dangerous as internal bleeding and organ damage may not be immediately apparent.

• Liver and spleen injuries: Internal bleeding can require emergency surgery.
• Kidney and bladder damage: This may result in long-term complications.
• Pelvic fractures: Can affect mobility and require extensive rehabilitation.

Possible internal injuries may be indicated by abdominal pain, visible bruising, dizziness, and symptoms of shock, including pale skin and a rapid pulse.

#7 Spine

Spinal injuries can have life-altering consequences, potentially leading to paralysis.

• Vertebral fractures: These injuries often require surgical intervention and prolonged recovery.
• Herniated discs: This condition can cause chronic pain and nerve compression.
• Spinal cord damage: Such injuries may result in partial or complete paralysis.

Depending on the severity, victims may experience:

• Paraplegia: Loss of movement in the lower body.
• Quadriplegia: Paralysis affecting all four limbs.
• Loss of sensation & motor function: This condition can require lifelong assistance and ongoing medical care.

Preventing Motorcycle Injuries

Motorcycle accidents can happen in an instant, often with severe consequences. While no rider can control the actions of other drivers, there are proactive steps that significantly reduce the risk of serious injury.

Wear Protective Gear

• Helmet: A DOT-approved helmet is the best protection against head injuries.
• Jackets and pants: Choose reinforced gear with padding.
• Gloves and boots: Provide better grip and protect against abrasions.

Ride Defensively

• Assume other drivers don’t see you.
• Maintain a safe following distance.
• Avoid riding in blind spots.
• Follow speed limits and traffic laws.

Maintain Your Motorcycle

• Regularly inspect tires, brakes, and lights.
• Ensure proper fluid levels and mechanical function.
• Address any issues before riding.

How Our Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Can Help

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, securing experienced legal representation is crucial.

Our Portland motorcycle accident attorneys at Newlin Law Offices will:

• Investigate your accident: Determine liability and gather evidence.
• Work with medical experts: Document your motorbike injuries and long-term needs.
• Negotiate with insurance companies: Fight against low settlement offers.
• Litigate if necessary: We'll take your case to court if a fair settlement isn’t reached.

We’ve represented countless motorcyclists injured due to negligent drivers who:

• Failed to check blind spots.
• Made sudden lane changes.
• Turned left without yielding.
• Tailgated riders dangerously.
• Opened car doors into traffic.

Motorcycle accidents can have lifelong consequences, from mounting medical bills to loss of income. Insurance companies often rush to settle for less than victims deserve. Our team ensures you receive full compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.