In a motorcycle collision, it is second nature for a person to protect themselves by using their arms. Biker’s arm covers a broad range of injuries to the nerves in the upper arm that can result when a biker uses their arm to brace their fall in a crash, or when the motorcycle lands on their arm.
The nerves at risk of being damaged when a biker crashes are the median, ulnar, and radial nerves. Collectively, these nerves control the movement in arms, hands, and fingers. Biker’s arm can lead to devastating injuries such as permanent nerve damage or loss of function in the fingers and arms.
Symptoms of Biker’s Arm
The symptoms of biker’s arm may not appear for several hours, days, or even weeks after an accident. This is why it is important to seek medical attention straight after an accident, even if you do not feel injuries. A thorough check-up may bring to light any injuries that you did not realize you have, such as biker’s arm. If you have been in an accident and used your arm to brace yourself or your bike, here is a list of symptoms you should look for:
- Tingling or numbness anywhere from your fingertips up through your arm
- Difficulty or inability to use your hands and fingers
- Lack of feeling in shoulders or upper arms
- Little to no control of the muscles in the shoulder and elbow
- Limited or complete paralysis in your arms
If you have been in a motorcycle accident and are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor as soon as you can.
Treatment and Recovery
The treatment for biker’s arm injuries will vary. Depending on the extent of your nerve damage, your doctor may prescribe you a combination of physical therapy, massage therapy, or pain medication to help you in your recovery.
In the event of nerve damage, surgery may be required to correct it, and if you leave it untreated, it could result in limited use of fingers, wrists, hands, or even full paralysis of your arm. The best way to recover fully is to identify the severity of your condition as early as possible by seeking proper medical attention immediately after the accident.
Hire an Experienced Attorney
If you are the victim of a motorcycle collision, hiring an experienced motorcycle accident attorney is the best way to help you determine damages, liability, and compensation. In the event that someone else, such as another driver, is responsible for the crash, they may also be liable for paying you damages. This can include money for all of your medical bills and pain and suffering related to your injury.
The pain and discomfort that you experience from biker’s arm can be permanent. It may cause significant disruption to your life, especially if you are unable to return to work for months or years. Because of this, make sure you consult with the best Santa Barbara motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible.
The team at NordstrandBlack PC believes believe that motorcyclists deserve proper representation after an accident and fair treatment from insurance companies. If another driver caused an accident that led to your biker’s arm, you should not have to deal with the consequences by yourself. Give us a call today at (805) 962-2022.