The knee is the largest joint in the body, which is why it is likely the most vulnerable to injury. Unfortunately, knee injuries are quite common in motorcycle accidents due to the force crashes put on knees, and one of the most commonly-damaged ligaments in the knee is the medial collateral ligament (MCL).

What Is the Medial Collateral Ligament?

The MCL’s purpose is to keep the knee from buckling inward. It rests on the inside of the knee and attaches the fibula in the lower leg to the femur in the upper leg. Because it is one of the four main ligaments in the knee, it is needed for proper walking and supporting the body’s weight. When it is injured in a motorcycle accident, make no mistake about it: it is a big deal, even if the insurance company minimizes your MCL tear.

The Seriousness of an MCL Tear

When the medial collateral ligament suffers disabling damage in a motorcycle crash, typically it is a result of a high-impact collision. In the event of a complete MCL tear, it is common for other knee damage, such as an ACL tear, and injuries to other parts of the body to also occur.

Symptoms of an MCL Tear

When an MCL tears, a motorcyclist may hear a ripping or tearing sound in the knee, and he or she may suddenly feel pain. Other symptoms of an MCL tear may include immediate swelling, bruising, a warm sensation in the knee, instability in the affected leg, and the inability to bear weight.

Recovering From an MCL Tear

A completely torn MCL will require surgery, pain medication, and months of physical therapy. Not only will injured motorcyclists need to recover physically from an MCL tear, but they will need to recover financially as well. Injuries that leave victims unable to walk, drive, work, or do the things they enjoy should be compensated accordingly. Unfortunately, insurance companies often undervalue knee injuries.

To learn how to deal with the insurance company and get the most compensation possible, request a free copy of our report, 10 Tips to Get the Maximum Compensation After a Maryland Accident.

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