Road rash is term we’re all familiar with, but you may not realize just how severe road rash injuries can be. The majority of road rash injuries are minor injuries that do not require treatment, but severe road rash can grind skin down to the bone and even grind off body parts, such as fingers. Severe road rash over a large portion of the body can be life-threatening. Those who survive can suffer permanent disfigurement and scarring so severe that it limits mobility, as well as other life-long consequences including nerve damage and chronic pain.
Road Rash
Road rash is a type of friction burn. Technically considered an abrasion, there may be also be damage from the heat created by the friction. In road rash the skin is rubbed off by contact with the road. Road rash is a painful injury, even when it is minor. Because of the nature of the injury and how it occurs, there is a high risk of infection. When skin is ground along the pavement, gravel, tar, and other road debris is ground into the wound.
Road rash is a common injury for motorcyclists, bicyclists, and skaters. Severe road rash can also occur in auto accidents and SUV rollovers when vehicle occupants are ejected, and in ATV accidents. In severe road rash, all of the skin can be ground off, as well as fat, muscles, and in extreme cases, bone can be ground off.
Road rash and burn injury treatment are very similar. Road rash victims may require skin grafts.
Consequences of Severe Road Rash
Consequences of road rash can include:
- Amputations
- Dismemberment
- Nerve damage
- Infection
- Sepsis
- Shock
- Nerve damage
- Severe scarring
- Disfigurement
- Loss of use of the affected area
If you have suffered severe road rash in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence or a defective vehicle, you may be able to recover substantial compensation for your medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and more. AccidentAttorneys,org can connect you with a highly credentialed attorney in your area.