Paralysis Following a Motorcycle Accident

All motorcyclists know that they take on more risk than other travelers on the road when they choose to ride. Even with all possible safety precautions taken, motorcyclists have a greater risk of injury or death than the average car passenger in the event of a collision. Road conditions, unpredictable weather, and the lack of awareness of other drivers put motorcycle operators at risk every day. Motorcycle accidents can be devastating in many ways, and with the possibility of a spinal cord injury, there is always the risk of paralysis.

Location of Spinal Cord Injury

If a motorcyclist experiences a complete spinal cord injury in the neck, it is likely that they will experience some type of paralysis. Although there are many variables affecting both the initial injury and the rate of recovery, the following locations usually dictate the level of paralysis when it comes to spinal cord injuries of the neck. The vertebral bones in the neck are known as cervical vertebrae, numbered 1 – 7, and referred to by healthcare workers as C1 – C7. The following gives a likely picture of what a complete spinal cord injury would mean in each area:

• C1 & C2 – Injuries in this area often result in a complete loss of control over breathing, requiring immediate intervention to provide the person with an artificial way to breathe. The rest of the body is usually paralyzed as well.
• C3 – Very similar to C1 & C2 injuries. In the case of C3, the diaphragm is paralyzed, requiring mechanical ventilation.
• C4 – Usually results in paralysis from the shoulders or biceps and down.
• C5 – Sometimes includes some loss of movement at the biceps and shoulders, as well as paralysis in the wrists, hands, and the rest of the body.
• C6 – May have some ability to use the arms up to the wrists, but still lacks use of hands and the rest of the body.
• C7 – Causes some loss of control and skill with the hands, but the rest of the arms may function.

If spinal cord injuries occur below the cervical vertebrae, they could cause various levels of partial paralysis.

Contact Us

The devastation of any type of paralysis is hard to comprehend. While our capable and caring attorneys cannot undo any of your suffering, we believe that it is just and right that you receive compensation if you were paralyzed following a motorcycle accident that was caused by someone else’s negligent behavior. Contact the Iowa motorcycle injury attorneys of the Pete Leehey Law Firm, P.C., at 877-209-9452 today.