Road rash is one of the most common types of motorcycle accident injuries. Even after a seemingly minor collision, a motorcyclist could suffer a major road rash injury. Road rash is notoriously painful, and, without proper treatment, it can develop into a far more serious medical issue. In this article, our Los Angeles motorcycle accident attorneys explain the most important things that bikers need to know about treating a road rash injury after a crash.
The Steps to Treat Road Rash After a Motorcycle Accident
Road rash is a term used by motorcyclists, motorcycle lawyers, medical professionals, and safety experts to describe the injury that can occur when a person’s skin makes contact with an abrasive road surface. Road rash is common in both motorcycle accidents and bicycle accidents — where riders are inherently exposed to danger. Here are the five key steps that you need to follow when treating a road rash injury after a motorcycle crash:
- Wash and Disinfect the Injury: The injury site must be washed and disinfected. In addition, the hands of the person treating the injury — whether it is a loved one, a helpful bystander, or the victim themselves — should be washed. At this time, the risk of infection is high.
- Carefully Remove the Debris: Any debris at the injury site should be carefully removed. Road rash debris comes in many different forms — from small amounts of dirt to little rocks and pebbles. Make sure that all of this debris is removed from the victim’s skin.
- Be Ready to Seek Professional Medical Attention: Road rash injuries can vary dramatically in their level of severity. While a minor road rash may be treated at home, many road rash injuries require professional medical care. Always be ready to see a doctor after a motorcycle crash. If you have any doubt as to whether or not you need professional medical help, do not risk it: schedule an appointment.
- Cover the Injury and Keep Bandages Fresh: A person should not walk around with open wounds. The road rash injury should be carefully covered with the appropriate bandages. Please note that bandages should be kept fresh — they may need to be replaced several times.
- Watch for Any Signs of Infection: Finally, it is imperative that injured motorcyclists watch for signs of infection. As explained by the Mayo Clinic, any open wound has the potential to develop into a serious infection. A road rash that becomes infected may turn a relatively mild injury into a severe, even life-threatening medical emergency.
Speak to Our Los Angeles, CA Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Right Away
At the office of El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers, our California motorcycle accident attorneys are strong, aggressive advocates for injured victims. If you or your loved one suffered a serious road rash injury in a crash, we can help.
To arrange a free initial consultation, please contact our legal team today. From our law office in Los Angeles, we handle motorcycle accident claims throughout California, including in Anaheim, Long Beach, San Bernardino, and Riverside.