Extensive infection may lead to septic shock which causes a significant decrease in blood pressure that may lead to organ failure or even death. Though it is rare, road rash could lead to blood poisoning or septic shock.
Debris, including rocks and sand, may likely become embedded in the wound.
While the lower layers of the skin do not tear, they often become visible when the upper layers have been damaged.
In most cases, you can treat first-degree road rash at home. However, as mentioned, abrasions are typically highly painful because of the number of nerve endings exposed. First-degree road rash may not appear to be a serious injury.