Traumatic Brain Injury and Tennessee Motorcycling Can Be Tragic

By Thomas Greer | January 26, 2015

When we take to the open road on our motorcycles, the last thing we want to think about is a traumatic brain injury (TBI). But, unfortunately, many motorcyclists sustain TBIs in Tennessee bike crashes.

And when these horrific crashes happen, many times it is not the fault of the rider; other motorists, poorly marked or maintained roadways, and equipment defects are just a few of the causes for Tennessee motorcycle accidents.

A traumatic brain injury is caused by a severe blow or jolt to the head. It can also be caused when something penetrates the skull, like a shattered skull piece or a bullet. While a mild TBI may just cause temporary damage to the brain cells, a severe TBI can result in long-term disability or even death.

In fact, all aspects of a motorcycle rider’s life can be affected with a severe TBI. If not fatal, a TBI can result in long-term issues with:

  • Attention and memory
  • Motor function including balance, coordination and weakness in the arms and legs
  • Hearing, vision, touch and perception
  • Emotional issues like depression, changes in personality, normal control of impulses and anxiety

Motorcycle Crash Data and Helmet Use Facts

Among all bikers in the United States, the number injured in crashes went down 8.9% from 2009 to 2010. This is, indeed, good news, but 82,000 were still injured during that year. And, of course, one of the biggest factors in preventing TBIs is whether or not you wear a proper motorcycle helmet. Consider the following:

  • In February this year, the Tennessee House Transportation General Subcommittee heard a bill, HB2661, that would allow all motorcyclists over age 21 to ride without helmets.
  • A December 2011 study by the AAA found that “92% of Tennessee voters favor retaining the state’s motorcycle helmet law in its current form.”
  • A June 2008 University of Pittsburgh study found, even after factoring for the increases in motorcycle registrations, head injury deaths increased by 32% and head injury hospitalizations by 425 – two years after repealing its motorcycle helmet law in 2003.

As Tennessee motorcycle accident lawyers, we urge all state bikers to wear helmets. However, doing so will not necessarily prevent a traumatic brain injury. If you or a loved one has suffered a motorcycle crash that resulted in a TBI because of someone else’s negligence, please give us a call. We can help you understand your rights and aid in your decide whether to take legal action.

Posted in Library, Motorcycle Accidents