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The Hidden Cost: Brain Injuries from Motorcycle Accidents in Omaha

By Jason Bottlinger on September 4, 2025

Motorcycle riders in Omaha face unique risks on the road, but there is none more devastating than a traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Despite protective measures like helmet use, brain trauma remains a frequent and severe outcome of motorcycle crashes. And in the wake of Nebraska’s updated helmet law, effective January 1, 2024, many riders are asking: Am I really protected?

This blog explores the mechanics, symptoms, legal implications, and long-term costs of motorcycle brain injuries in Omaha. Working with a trusted accident lawyer in Omaha is essential when navigating the aftermath of a motorcycle injury.

Understanding the Helmet Law Change in Nebraska

As of January 1, 2024, Nebraska’s new helmet legislation gives adult motorcyclists the choice to ride without a helmet, provided they complete a safety course and carry appropriate insurance.

While this law grants more autonomy to experienced riders, it has also raised safety concerns. Early 2025 crash data already suggests an uptick in severe injuries, particularly motorcycle brain injury in Omaha incidents.

How Brain Trauma Occurs in Motorcycle Accidents

Even in low-speed crashes, a motorcyclist’s head is vulnerable. Unlike occupants of passenger vehicles, riders have no metal frame, seatbelt, or airbag protection. A collision can cause the head to strike pavement, a vehicle, or other objects. But not all brain trauma involves direct contact.

The Mechanics of TBI in Motorcycle Crashes

• Rotational Forces: Sudden turns or flips can twist the brain within the skull, shearing neurons and blood vessels. These internal injuries often don’t show up immediately.
• Whiplash Effect: The rapid back-and-forth motion in a crash may lead to coup-contrecoup injuries, where the brain strikes both sides of the skull.
• Concussive Blasts: Even without visible head trauma, the shock of impact can trigger changes in brain function.

It’s important to remember that a rider can suffer a traumatic brain injury in a motorcycle crash even while wearing a DOT-approved helmet.

Why Helmeted Riders Still Suffer TBIs

Motorcycle helmets are designed to reduce skull fractures and absorb linear impacts, but they cannot fully prevent internal brain movement during a crash, as they don’t shield the brain from rotational acceleration or deceleration injuries. For example, subdural hematomas, diffuse axonal injuries, and contusions are all forms of brain trauma that can occur even when the skull remains intact.

While Nebraska’s updated helmet law offers flexibility, it also increases the potential severity of outcomes for those who opt out of helmet use. Road conditions, collision angles, and speed all contribute to the potential for serious internal damage.

TBI Symptoms After a Crash

Traumatic brain injuries range from mild concussions to severe cognitive impairments. In many cases, symptoms may be delayed for days or weeks after the incident. That’s why it’s vital for riders and their families to recognize warning signs early.

Common TBI symptoms after a crash:

• Persistent headaches
• Confusion or memory loss
• Dizziness or loss of balance
• Mood changes or depression
• Blurred vision or light sensitivity
• Sleep disturbances
• Nausea or vomiting

If you experience any of these symptoms after a motorcycle crash, seek immediate medical attention. Early diagnosis is key for receiving the best treatment, and it’s also essential for seeking brain trauma compensation claims in Nebraska.

The Long-Term Cost of Motorcycle Brain Injuries

Unlike broken bones or surface wounds, TBIs often require years of care and create lifelong challenges. In Omaha and across Nebraska, these injuries often result in:

• Lost earning capacity
• Full or partial disability
• Cognitive rehabilitation therapy
• Home modifications and personal care services
• Emotional and psychological effects

The hidden financial and personal costs can devastate individuals and families. This is why partnering with an experienced Omaha motorcycle accident lawyer is critical. Legal support ensures that all damages, including non-economic losses like pain and suffering, are fully considered.

Filing an Effective Brain Trauma Compensation Claim in Nebraska

After sustaining a TBI in a motorcycle crash, the legal process can feel overwhelming. Bottlinger Law L.L.C. is here to simplify the path forward and protect your rights every step of the way.

You have the right to pursue full and fair compensation under Nebraska law. Key legal considerations include:

• Nebraska’s Comparative Negligence Rule: If you are found partially at fault, your compensation may be reduced. However, if you’re 50% or less at fault, you can still pursue a claim.
• Statute of Limitations: In Nebraska, you generally have four years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury claim. However, it’s advisable to act quickly, especially in TBI cases where evidence and memory can fade.
• Insurance Complications: Insurers often dispute the seriousness of brain injuries, especially those without external signs. Your attorney will gather medical records, expert testimony, and accident evidence to strengthen your case.

Motorcycle Safety Tips

With Nebraska’s helmet law changing, motorcycle safety in Omaha takes on new urgency. Riders will want to take extra precautions:

• Always wear protective gear, including a helmet, even if not legally required.
• Complete an advanced rider safety course.
• Ride defensively and anticipate driver errors.
• Avoid riding in poor weather conditions or at night.

Reasons to Choose Bottlinger Law L.L.C.

At Bottlinger Law L.L.C., we understand the complex medical, emotional, and financial challenges faced by motorcycle crash survivors. Our firm, led by Jason Bottlinger—a Top 100 Lawyer by The National Trial Lawyers and recognized by Expertise.com as a Best Personal Injury Attorney in Omaha—is deeply committed to fighting for the recovery you deserve.

We are sensitive to your situation, strategic in our approach, and tireless in seeking justice. With experience handling a wide range of serious injury cases, we know how to navigate the intricacies of motorcycle brain injury claims in Omaha and work to secure meaningful outcomes.

Speak With Our Trusted Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Omaha Today

If you or someone you love has suffered a traumatic brain injury from a motorcycle crash, don’t wait. Your recovery depends on the steps you take now. Contact Bottlinger Law L.L.C. today at (402) 505-8234 to schedule your free consultation with our personal injury attorney. We’re here to guide you with compassion, experience, and resolve.