Motorcycle crashes are notoriously dangerous. Unlike drivers in enclosed vehicles, riders have little physical protection when a collision occurs. While external injuries such as road rash, broken bones, or visible wounds are often treated immediately, internal injuries can be far more dangerous—and far less noticeable. These hidden injuries may not show symptoms right away, but they can be life-threatening without prompt diagnosis and treatment.
At Gogel Law Firm, our St. Louis personal injury attorney represents motorcycle crash victims throughout Missouri. We understand how devastating these injuries can be—not only physically but emotionally and financially. Here, we shed light on the serious risks of internal injuries after a motorcycle crash and what Missouri riders need to know to protect their health and their legal rights.
The Unique Risks Motorcyclists Face in a Collision
Motorcycle riders are exposed to far greater risks than those in cars or trucks. Even a low-speed impact can throw a rider to the ground or into surrounding objects without a protective barrier. These impacts often cause blunt-force trauma, which is one of the most common causes of internal injuries in motorcycle crashes.
Unlike visible injuries, internal trauma may not be detected right away at the scene of the accident. Riders may feel “okay” initially, only to experience sudden pain, weakness, or serious complications hours or days later. This delayed onset can be dangerous and is a significant reason why motorcyclists should seek immediate medical care after any crash, no matter how minor it seems.
Common Internal Injuries Caused by Motorcycle Crashes
Internal injuries can affect any organ system and often require emergency surgery or long-term medical care.
Some of the most serious and common internal injuries seen in motorcycle crashes include:
- Internal bleeding: Caused by trauma to blood vessels or organs, internal bleeding can lead to shock or death if untreated.
- Organ damage: The liver, spleen, kidneys, and lungs are especially vulnerable in blunt-force trauma.
- Pneumothorax (collapsed lung): Caused by broken ribs or chest trauma, this condition impairs breathing and requires urgent treatment.
- Brain hemorrhages: Internal bleeding in the brain can be fatal or cause permanent disability, even with a helmet.
- Abdominal trauma: Blunt abdominal injuries may not be visible but can result in bowel perforation or sepsis.
Prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical. CT scans, MRIs, and other imaging may be needed to detect these injuries and prevent long-term complications.
Why Internal Injury Claims Are Often More Complex
Motorcycle injury claims involving internal trauma are legally and medically complex. These injuries often require extensive medical testing and documentation to prove their origin and severity. Insurance companies may try to downplay the seriousness of “invisible” injuries or argue that symptoms were preexisting.
At Gogel Law Firm, we work with medical experts to thoroughly document your internal injuries, connect them to the crash, and calculate the full scope of damages.
This includes:
- Medical bills (including future treatment).
- Pain and suffering.
- Lost income or earning capacity.
- Permanent disability or long-term care needs.
Get Legal Help If You’ve Suffered Internal Injuries in a Missouri Motorcycle Crash
If you’ve been in a motorcycle crash—especially one involving internal injuries—don’t try to navigate the recovery and legal process alone. At Gogel Law Firm, we’re committed to helping injured riders across St. Louis and Missouri get the justice and compensation they deserve.
Contact Gogel Law Firm at (314) 775-3864 or online for a free consultation. Let us help you understand your rights, fight back against the insurance company, and move forward after a serious crash.
