Road Rash

Road rash, a common injury in accidents involving motorcycles, bicycles, or pedestrians, occurs when skin rubs against a rough surface during a collision, causing abrasions, lacerations, and sometimes more profound tissue damage. This type of injury can range from mild to severe, depending on the impact force and the speed at which the victim traveled.

Road rash injuries can happen in various ways, often during accidents involving motor vehicles:

• Abrasions: Abrasions are superficial injuries caused by friction between the skin and a rough surface during a fall or collision. In road rash accidents, abrasions occur when the skin scrapes against asphalt or pavement due to a motorcycle, bicycle, or pedestrian accident.
• Lacerations: Lacerations are deeper cuts or tears in the skin that result from sharp objects or edges. In road rash injuries, lacerations may occur when the skin is torn by debris or jagged surfaces during a collision or fall.
• Contusions: Contusions, commonly known as bruises, occur when blood vessels beneath the skin rupture, causing discoloration and swelling. In road rash accidents, contusions can result from blunt force trauma or impact with hard surfaces such as the ground or vehicle.
• Friction burns: Friction burns, also known as “road burns,” occur when the skin is rubbed against a rough surface at high speed, causing heat and abrasion damage. In road rash injuries, friction burns are common due to the friction between the skin and pavement during a fall or slide.
• Soft tissue injuries: Soft tissue injuries, such as strains, sprains, and tears, can occur in road rash accidents due to the sudden force and impact on muscles, tendons, and ligaments. These injuries often result from the body’s attempt to brace against or absorb the impact of a collision or fall.

While minor road rash injuries may heal with proper care, severe cases can lead to long-term issues such as scarring, nerve damage, or even permanent disfigurement. In some instances, victims may require skin grafts or other surgical procedures to repair the damage fully.