Motorcycle accidents are unfortunately common in St. Louis. The injuries that result from them can range from relatively minor cuts, scrapes, and bruises to more serious, life-altering conditions. One of the most severe types of injuries is also the hardest to identify without medical intervention: internal injuries.
If you suffered catastrophic injuries in a motorcycle accident in St. Louis, you are likely facing expensive medical treatments, lost income, and other substantial losses – not to mention pain, trauma, and mental health issues. The person who caused the accident could owe you money for these and other losses, but getting them to compensate you fairly could prove challenging.
Instead of pursuing a claim alone, turn to an experienced St. Louis motorcycle accident lawyer with Sumner Law Group, LLC. We can handle the legal aspects of your claim on your behalf, giving you the time and space you need to recuperate.
Don’t wait to demand justice. Contact us today for a free consultation with a motorcycle accident lawyer in St. Louis.
What Are Internal Injuries?
Internal injuries are frequently hidden consequences of a motorcycle accident that can actually be quite severe. The term refers to any damage done to organs, tissues, or muscles inside the body that is not visible on the outside. These injuries can range from mild contusions and bruises to serious organ damage and internal bleeding, which can sometimes be life-threatening. The serious risks they pose make it crucial to seek medical attention after any motorcycle accident, even if there are no visible signs of physical injury.
Common Types of Internal Injuries from a Motorcycle Accident in St. Louis
Motorcyclists are exposed to the full force of a traffic collision, which puts them at particular risk of serious internal injuries like:
- Bruising of internal organs – A direct blow to the body or a jolt from a crash can cause bruises or contusions to the internal organs, including the kidneys, spleen, and liver.
- Broken ribs – Ribs are especially vulnerable to fracturing in a motorcycle crash. If a rib breaks, it can puncture an organ, causing internal bleeding and other complications.
- Brain bleeding – Bleeding or swelling in the brain is one of the most serious types of internal injuries that can occur due to a motorcycle crash. Brain bleeds can cause permanent disability or death if not treated quickly.
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) – Brain injuries can also result from the extreme forces exerted on the head during a motorcycle crash. A TBI may result from a biker’s head striking a hard surface or receiving a sharp jolt in a crash. These invisible injuries are very common in motorcycle accidents and can cause significant cognitive impairment.
- Lung damage – Lung damage can range from bruising or contusions to collapsed lungs or punctured lung tissue. Such injuries may result in difficulty breathing, coughing up blood, chest pain, and other serious symptoms.
- Internal bleeding – Motorcycle crashes can cause veins and arteries to tear, leading to internal bleeding, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Symptoms of internal bleeding include dizziness, rapid heartbeat, confusion, and shock.
How Do Motorcycle Crashes Cause Internal Injuries?
Over 5,500 motorcyclists died, and another 180,000 were treated in emergency rooms for crash injuries in one recent year alone, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Unfortunately, motorcycles offer little to no protection for their riders. When an accident occurs, the results are often devastating.
In many cases, the immediate crash is what causes internal injuries. The force of impact from the collision can cause blunt force trauma to the chest and abdomen and extreme internal bruising, bleeding, and even organ damage.
Furthermore, motorcyclists are also at serious risk of being thrown off the bike. The impact of hitting the ground or another object often causes severe internal trauma. Even when a motorcyclist wears protective body gear, they may still suffer severe internal injuries.
Symptoms of Internal Injuries to Watch for After a Motorcycle Crash
Motorcyclists in St. Louis should be aware of the symptoms of internal injuries and seek medical attention if they experience any of the following after a crash:
- Unusual or extreme pain
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Numbness or tingling
- Weakness or fatigue
- Abdominal pain or nausea
- Loss of consciousness
One of the most dangerous aspects of internal injuries is that they are not always immediately apparent. Consequently, you should always seek medical attention after a collision, even if you initially feel fine.
Treatments, Complications, and Lasting Effects of Internal Injuries
The sooner you seek help after a motorcycle accident, the better your prognosis. For relatively minor injuries, your doctor may suggest resting and taking medications to reduce swelling and pain. You may require surgery or intensive medical care if you suffered organ damage or internal bleeding.
Common motorcycle trauma complications from internal injuries include infection, organ failure, sepsis, and blood clots. In some cases, internal injuries can have long-lasting effects on a patient’s health. Depending on the severity and location of the injury, patients may experience chronic pain, reduced mobility, difficulty breathing, difficulty eating, and trouble concentrating. In some cases, these lasting effects can significantly impact their quality of life.
Recovering Damages for Motorcycle Accident Internal Injuries in St. Louis
If you suffered internal injuries due to a motorcycle accident caused by another driver, you may be eligible to receive compensation from those responsible for your:
- Past and future medical bills
- Lost wages
- Diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Reduced quality of life
In order to do so, you must demonstrate that another party’s negligence led to your internal injuries. You must also show that this party was responsible for the accident, usually because they failed to exercise appropriate care given the circumstances. One way is to show that they violated a motorcycle law. Our qualified and experienced St. Louis motorcycle accident lawyers can do this for you by investigating the crash, determining who is liable, and negotiating with their insurer for compensation.
Contact Our St. Louis Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Today
Are you dealing with internal injuries after a motorcycle crash in St. Louis? Speak with an experienced motorcycle injury attorney as soon as possible. At Sumner Law Group, LLC, we understand the complexities such cases present, and we’re here to demand the compensation you deserve. Our lawyers have extensive experience handling cases involving internal injuries from motorcycle accidents and are ready to work hard to protect your rights.
Contact us today for a free consultation to learn more about the legal services we offer and how we can assist you during this difficult time.
