Originally Posted by
AlmostTrick
Using your arms for protection when falling is a valid method for reducing or avoiding other serious injuries. It all depends on how you use them. See martial arts breakfalls for proper technique.
I've never had any martial arts training, so I wouldn't trust myself sticking my hands out. I'll keep my hands on the bars, as I've done in previous crashes. I've broken bikes, I've broken helmets, I've torn the backs of my gloves, but thankfully I've never broken myself.