Bicycle accidents can have many consequences, some of which can last forever. Physical injuries, which most people recognize, are just one of the possible consequences of a bicycle accident. Behind the healing injuries are mental wounds, which are usually more difficult to deal with. Besides, people involved in car accidents might be more willing to seek mental health support than a person involved in a bicycle accident because some consider bicycle accidents minor. However, cyclists involved in bicycle accidents may develop anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or other psychological issues in addition to the physical bruises. Therefore, it is crucial to fully understand the impact of these accidents and seek rightful compensation if necessary. This article will explain the physical and emotional trauma associated with bicycle accidents.
Brain Injury
Brain injury is a devastating possible consequence of a bicycle accident. The injury could change every aspect of life because it could lead to disability, and the treatment is quite expensive. Some cyclists believe that a helmet can prevent brain injury even if they are involved in an accident. A helmet can minimize the injury, but the impact of a collision is likely to cause concussion or severe damage. Therefore, those hurt in a bicycle accident should involve a lawyer to pursue compensation. The person injured should also undergo a thorough examination and tests to determine if the brain was injured. The injury could lead to memory loss or loss of motor skills, which could require rehabilitation or lifestyle adjustments.
Amputations
Some cyclists, unfortunately, experience traumatic amputations of their limbs in a bicycle accident. Unlike other injuries, amputations have lasting consequences because one may lose independence and mobility. Also, they need physical therapy and prosthetics to regain functionality, which are quite expensive. The situation is made worse by the fact that the injured person loses income if they cannot work or handle household chores after amputation. This means life is never the same after the accident, explaining why a cyclist should file for compensation.
Emotional Trauma
Post-traumatic stress disorder and anxiety are some emotional and psychological problems that could arise following a bicycle accident. The survivors, though happy to be alive, still struggle with depression and survivor’s guilt. Others experience anxiety and nightmares that make it hard to resume work or parenting roles. Therefore, they depend on loved ones for their daily needs. They also spend money on treatment to overcome the psychological trauma and lead a relatively everyday life. That is why any person injured in a bicycle accident caused by another person deserves compensation.
Spinal Cord Injury
The spinal cord is one of the few body systems with many critical roles in the body. It transmits sensory information from the limbs or other organs to the brain. It also sends motor commands from the brain to the relevant organs and coordinates reflexes. If the spinal cord is injured in a bicycle accident, the person injured may not walk or coordinate hands and legs in some cases. Therefore, this person becomes paralyzed and loses sensation, especially in the lower part of the body. Although surgery and physical therapy can help restore some functions, some patients do not recover fully. Therefore, they need compensation to cater to their daily needs.
Understanding the risks and consequences of a bicycle accident can help cyclists take safety measures seriously. Cyclists can also protect each other and avoid risky situations that could cause accidents. However, if anyone is injured in an accident, they can work with a lawyer to seek compensation for injuries and emotional trauma.
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