In a city like Hollywood, where cyclists are frequently on the move, accidents caused by negligent drivers can lead to devastating injuries. At Viñas & Deluca, our bicycle accident lawyer is committed to protecting the rights of injured cyclists and pursuing the compensation they need to heal and move forward. Call (786) 460-1814 to schedule a free consultation and get the legal support you deserve.
Injuries Riders Often Face After a Bicycle Crash
Cycling offers many benefits, from improved health to reduced transportation costs. But it also comes with risks, especially when sharing the road with larger vehicles. Bicycle accidents can happen suddenly, and when they do, the injuries are often serious. Riders have little protection beyond a helmet and clothing, so collisions can lead to a range of physical trauma.
Understanding the types of injuries cyclists commonly suffer can help accident victims know what to watch for after a crash. It can also be helpful for those pursuing a personal injury claim. Below is a detailed breakdown of the injuries that often result from bicycle accidents, particularly in areas like Hollywood where traffic conditions can be unpredictable.
Head and Brain Injuries
Head injuries are one of the most serious outcomes of a bicycle accident. Even when a helmet is worn, the force of impact can cause trauma to the brain. Riders may suffer from concussions, skull fractures, or more severe traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
Symptoms of a head injury can include confusion, dizziness, headaches, memory problems, and in more severe cases, loss of consciousness. These injuries are often not immediately visible, which makes it important to get a medical evaluation right after an accident. Head trauma can have lasting effects, especially if left untreated.
Facial and Dental Injuries
When a rider is thrown from a bicycle, the face is often one of the first parts of the body to strike the ground or another object. This can result in broken facial bones, cuts, eye injuries, and dental trauma. Broken teeth, jaw fractures, and damage to the nose or cheekbones are common in more forceful collisions.
Facial injuries often require surgery or cosmetic procedures and can lead to long-term emotional effects due to visible scarring or disfigurement.
Neck and Back Injuries
The impact of being struck by a car or falling hard to the pavement can cause serious strain to the neck and spine. Whiplash is a common outcome, particularly if the rider was hit from behind. More serious cases may involve herniated discs or spinal fractures.
Neck and back pain may not always appear immediately. It can take hours or even days for the full extent of the damage to become clear. These injuries can interfere with daily life and may require long-term physical therapy or pain management.
Broken Bones and Fractures
Fractures are extremely common in bicycle accidents. The arms, wrists, collarbones, ribs, and legs are particularly vulnerable. In many cases, riders instinctively extend their arms to break a fall, which can lead to wrist or forearm fractures.
Broken bones can range in severity. Some require only a cast, while others may need surgery and extensive rehabilitation. Recovery time can be lengthy, especially if multiple fractures are involved.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries affect muscles, tendons, and ligaments. These types of injuries may include sprains, strains, bruises, and tears. While not always visible, soft tissue damage can be painful and limit mobility.
Common examples include shoulder strains from bracing during a fall or ankle sprains caused by awkward landings. These injuries are often underestimated but can linger for weeks or months.
Road Rash and Skin Abrasions
When a cyclist is thrown off the bike and slides across the pavement, skin abrasions—often referred to as road rash—are almost inevitable. These wounds can be painful and prone to infection if not treated properly. In severe cases, skin grafts may be necessary.
Road rash varies in severity. Minor scrapes can heal on their own, but deeper abrasions may leave permanent scars or require surgical care. Proper cleaning and medical attention are crucial to prevent complications.
Internal Injuries
Not all injuries are visible. Blunt force trauma from a crash can cause internal bleeding or organ damage. The abdomen, chest, and pelvis are particularly vulnerable in high-impact collisions.
Signs of internal injuries may include pain, swelling, dizziness, or fainting. These types of injuries can be life-threatening if not treated immediately. That’s why a thorough medical evaluation after a crash is important, even if you feel fine at first.
Psychological Trauma
Injuries after a bicycle accident are not always physical. Many victims experience emotional distress in the aftermath of a crash. Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress can develop, especially if the accident was severe or involved life-threatening injuries.
Mental health struggles can make it difficult to return to riding or even resume daily activities. Therapy or counseling may be necessary to fully recover. These psychological effects are real and should be taken seriously as part of the overall injury picture.
Injuries to Children in Bicycle Accidents
Children are especially vulnerable when involved in a bicycle accident. Their bodies are smaller and more fragile, making them more likely to suffer serious injuries even at low speeds.
Common injuries in child cyclists include head trauma, broken limbs, and cuts or abrasions. It’s essential to have a child checked by a doctor right after a crash, as symptoms may be delayed or hard for a child to express.
The Importance of Early Medical Treatment
No matter how minor an injury may seem at the time of the accident, it’s critical to seek medical attention immediately. Some injuries take time to present symptoms, while others can quickly worsen without proper treatment. A medical record also provides essential documentation if you decide to pursue a personal injury claim later.
Doctors can identify injuries that might otherwise go unnoticed and recommend a treatment plan that supports a full recovery. Timely care can also help reduce the chances of long-term complications.
Let a Bicycle Accident Attorney Help You Move Forward
If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident in Hollywood, Viñas & Deluca is ready to protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve. Our dedicated bicycle accident attorneys are committed to delivering strong legal representation and responsive support. Contact us at (786) 460-1814 for a free consultation and let us help you take the next step toward recovery.