As a personal injury attorney Dekalb County GA residents trust knows all too well, a road rash is defined as any type of soft tissue damage or skin abrasion caused by scrapes against gravel, pavement, or other surfaces. These injuries are most frequently sustained by motorcycle and bicycle riders, as they are incredibly vulnerable to coming into contact with the ground or other objects during accidents. While considering a number of factors, including the protection worn by victims and the speed a motorcycle or bicycle was traveling prior to impact, there is variation in the range of road rash, similar to that of burns. From minor abrasions to extensive soft tissue damage and bone breaks, these injuries can significantly impact the physical, emotional, and financial well-being of victims.
There are a number of incidents that could make you a victim of road rash. Motorcycle accidents, car dragging incidents, and incidents where you fall at or near the premises of a business, road rash could be one of many injuries you could sustain. The idea of gravel, bits of broken glass, road debris, and metal fragments embedded in your skin, especially during an accident can develop into a serious infections and can prolong recovery time.
– First Degree Road Rash: This type of road rash is very minor and usually does not require medical treatment. It can be a bit painful, but the skin is not broken, just reddened.
– Second Degree Road Rash: This type of road rash involves a minor breaking of the outer layer of skin. There can be bleeding, pain, and limited movement, but over the counter ointment is usually all that is needed to treat this rash.
– Third Degree Road Rash: This is extremely severe and occurs when all 5 layers of skin are exposed. This road rash is very susceptible to infections and those infections can be life threatening, especially MRSA. In addition, this type of road rash can result in permanent disfigurement, requiring multiple cosmetic surgeries and skin grafts to repair. IV antibiotics are often needed and permanent muscle, nerve, and tissue damage can occur without proper treatment.
In the event you or someone you know have been involved in an incident and they’re injuries are or include road rash, please reach out to an attorney. Due to the nature of your injuries and the facts surrounding the incident, you may be entitled to compensation, to include, medical bill payments, loss wages recoupment, and pain and suffering. Take the time to find an attorney that will listen to your story, honestly, advise you on whether or not you have a case, and assist you in getting back to your original bill of health and reconcile any inconvenience you experienced.
Thanks to our friends and contributors from Andrew R. Lynch, P.C. for their insight into finding an attorney.