65% of bone fractures linked to dirt bike riding are below the waist. That’s not the type of injury you can brush off before getting back on your bike. In less severe cases, the adrenaline rush you’re experiencing might mask a major problem.
Here are the five steps you need to take after a dirt bike accident.
With these tips, you can assess your health properly. Then, you can get back on the bike without long-term health damage slowing you down in the future. Check yourself before you wreck your bike with these tips.
The first step to take after a dirt bike accident is to check your surroundings. Whether you’re on a track or a crowded trail, you’re vulnerable after a crash. Get out of the way before you get hit by another bike.
Make sure to look both ways and assess your surroundings before you move.
Once you’re somewhere safe, look back at the crash site. Did you leave anything behind, such as a broken bike part? Gather evidence of the crash and move broken pieces away to keep someone else from getting injured.
Once you’re in a safe area, complete a quick body check.
Wiggle your toes, move your fingers, and make sure everything is moving the way it should. If something is moving or bending in a way it shouldn’t, you need to check in with a doctor.
Potential dirt bike injuries can include broken bones, a concussion, or internal bleeding. It’s important to have a professional check your injuries to assess the damage.
Over 60% of dirt bike accidents victims suffer a high level of trauma. 35% of the injuries are fractured.
Even if you based the basic self-check, don’t rush to get back on your bike. Instead, slow down and listen to your body.
Give it a few minutes. If adrenaline is masking the pain, you might not realize the injury. Check your helmet for cracks or scratches to determine if you hit your head and have a concussion.
After a dirt bike accident, make sure your bike isn’t leaking. Check your cases, handlebars, and controls. Identify any split lines, popped seals, or cracked housing.
Sometimes, the bars and wheels won’t line up after a crash. Straighten your bars to see if your wheel is in-line. If it’s off-center, give it a forceful kick if you can.
Don’t ride your bike if it isn’t safe. Damage to bikes can lead to future dirt bike injuries you could otherwise avoid.
Don’t diagnose potential dirt bike injuries on your own. Instead, make sure to have a professional check you out.
A physician can check for any sprains, strains, or fractures. Their assessment can determine whether or not it’s safe for you to get bake on your bike. If it’s not, give your body the time it needs to heal and rest.
Don’t ignore the pain after you’re in a dirt bike accident. A quick check at your local urgent care could make a difference if you’ve sustained long-term health damage.
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