One of my biggest fears when it comes to riding a motorcycle is breaking or losing a leg. I know a few riders who have lost a leg in low-speed accidents. One was even in a parking lot. However, there is a much bigger risk to worry about during a motorcycle wreck instead. 

What is the most dangerous injury during a motorcycle wreck? 

During a motorcycle wreck, you may sustain various injuries based on what gear you’re wearing, where the accident occurs, and at what speed they occur. 

Most accidents occur in intersections when other drivers don’t see motorcyclists turning or going straight. 

I’ve met people who have suffered leg amputations as a result of an accident. Your legs are free around the bike, exposing them to being hit by cars, crushed under the motorcycle, and snagged on other objects. 

However, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), only three to five percent of motorcycle-related injuries involve amputations. But the actual amount of amputations might be higher due to cases going unreported or misclassified. 

Roughly 47% of motorcycle-related injuries include damage to the lower extremities. It’s the most common type of injury, but it may result in mild bruising, lacerations, and fractures instead of full-blown amputations. 

The most common causes of losing a limb during a motorcycle crash involve a limb getting stuck in metal chains, getting shattered beyond repair, being partially severed during the accident and needing to be removed later, and getting an infection after surgery. 

But the chances of this happening are relatively low compared to other types of injuries. For example, head injuries account for 37% of motorcycle-related accidents. Brain injuries range from mild concussions to more severe traumatic detriments. 

There’s also a risk of spinal cord injuries that may result in partial or total paralysis. This can be paired with internal bleeding and organ damage. 

So, please, stay safe out there!