Are Motorcyclists at Greater Risk of Catastrophic Injuries?

 Posted on November 21, 2025 in Motorcycle Accidents

Auto accidents can happen virtually anywhere. Save for extreme cases, the protection of a car and airbags can protect most motorists from serious injuries. However, motorcyclists are not afforded the same degree of protection, leaving them more susceptible to catastrophic injuries. These injuries are characterized by long-term damage and debilitating aftereffects.

If you or somebody you care about has sustained a catastrophic injury in a motorcycle crash, consider working with an Orland Park, IL motorcycle accident lawyer who can fight for your right to compensation. At Law Office of J. Francis Barker, P.C., we provide strong advocacy for clients in need, fighting for the best possible result in every case.

Three Kinds of Catastrophic Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents

Spinal Cord Injuries

The spinal cord plays an integral role in motor control, carrying signals from the brain to the body. As such, any damage to the spinal cord carries the risk of paralysis, such as paraplegia (loss of control of the lower body) and quadriplegia (loss of control of all four limbs and the torso).

Falling on your back in a motorcycle accident could put you at serious risk of a spinal cord injury, especially at high speeds. Sideswipe accidents or rear-end collisions may result in a motorcyclist being flung from his or her vehicle, leading to a rough landing.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

The brain is a delicate organ, and while the skull can serve as a cushion against life-threatening injuries, any impact to the head can cause lasting damage. Traumatic brain injuries, or TBIs, can have mild to severe effects, possibly threatening your earning capacity.

Even with a helmet on, a motorcyclist may still be at risk of sustaining a TBI in an accident. The sudden jolt of a crash can cause the brain to jostle inside the skull, leading to a concussion. If you have suffered a TBI in a crash, a personal injury lawyer can help you file a claim to get compensation for any permanent loss of income and diminished enjoyment of life, in addition to other damages.

Broken Bones

Breaking a bone in a motorcycle crash is not always catastrophic if there is a clear road to recovery. However, when a motorcyclist suffers a complex fracture or breaks several of his or her bones in a collision, the resulting damage may be considered catastrophic. Some fractures can even cause internal damage and blood clots.

When a car hits a motorcyclist directly, the force behind the impact can easily break multiple bones. A personal injury claim can cover the medical expenses associated with the accident, including the cost of an extended hospital stay (735 ILCS 5/2-1115.2).

Contact a Cook County, IL Personal Injury Attorney

Have you been hurt in a motorcycle collision? If so, Law Office of J. Francis Barker, P.C. can help. Attorney Jaime Barker has over a decade of legal experience, enabling him to effectively guide clients through the claims process and work to hold negligent drivers accountable. Call our offices at 708-321-1223 or contact our Orland Park, IL motorcycle accident lawyer to schedule a free consultation.