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Internal Injuries from Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents carry a high risk of serious injury. Unlike occupants of cars and trucks, riders have little to shield them from the forces of a collision. While some injuries, like broken bones and road rash, are obvious at the scene, internal injuries can be far more insidious. They may not be immediately visible but can be life-threatening if left untreated. At Briskman Briskman & Greenberg, we understand how devastating internal injuries from motorcycle accidents can be. Our team is committed to supporting victims across Chicago and Illinois, ensuring their medical, financial, and legal needs are met after a crash.
The Scope of Motorcycle Accidents and Internal Injuries in Illinois
Illinois is home to thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts, and Chicago’s urban roads as well as suburban and rural highways see heavy motorcycle traffic—especially during the warmer months. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), there were 2,544 injured motorcyclists in Illinois in 2021. Cook County, which includes Chicago, consistently reports the highest number of serious and fatal motorcycle accidents in the state.
While official state statistics break down total injuries and fatalities, studies of trauma center data reveal that internal injuries are among the most prevalent and dangerous outcomes for motorcycle crash victims. Nationally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that internal injuries are one of the leading causes of death among motorcyclists involved in accidents. Illinois trauma centers—including those in Chicago—continually treat riders for hidden injuries to organs, blood vessels, and internal structures after collisions.
How Do Internal Injuries Occur in Motorcycle Accidents?
Motorcycles offer minimal protection from blunt force trauma. When a rider is thrown from a bike, collides with another vehicle, or is struck by flying debris, the force can compress or rupture organs, break blood vessels, or damage internal tissue. Unlike external wounds, these injuries may not be evident right away. Some of the most common mechanisms include:
- Direct impact with the handlebars, gas tank, or road surface
- Being pinned or crushed between vehicles
- Striking the torso against guardrails or other structures
- Sudden deceleration causing organs to shift violently within the body
In many cases, adrenaline and shock can mask initial symptoms, and riders might not realize the severity of their injuries until hours or days later—when prompt treatment becomes critical.
Types of Internal Injuries from Motorcycle Accidents
1. Internal Bleeding (Hemorrhage):
One of the most dangerous consequences of blunt force trauma is bleeding inside the body. Blood can pool in the chest, abdomen, or around organs, leading to shock, organ failure, or death if not quickly controlled. Internal bleeding isn’t always visible but may present as swelling, bruising, dizziness, or fainting.
2. Organ Damage:
The liver, spleen, kidneys, and lungs are particularly vulnerable during high-impact crashes. A ruptured spleen or torn liver, for example, can cause rapid blood loss and require emergency surgery. Lung injuries may result from broken ribs or chest trauma, causing breathing difficulties and other complications.
3. Pneumothorax (Collapsed Lung):
A broken rib or direct chest impact can puncture the lung, causing air to leak into the chest cavity. This can make it difficult to breathe and is a life-threatening emergency.
4. Cardiac Tamponade and Heart Injuries:
Blunt trauma to the chest can injure the heart or the sac surrounding it, sometimes resulting in cardiac tamponade—a buildup of fluid that prevents the heart from pumping properly.
5. Abdominal Injuries:
Damage to the intestines, stomach, or pancreas may cause internal bleeding or peritonitis, a severe infection of the abdominal lining. These injuries are not always immediately apparent.
6. Aortic Injury:
The aorta is the largest artery in the body. Severe trauma to the chest or abdomen can cause this vessel to tear or rupture, which is often fatal without immediate surgical intervention.
7. Pelvic Fractures with Associated Internal Injuries:
Pelvic injuries commonly occur when a rider lands forcefully on the ground or is run over. The pelvis houses vital blood vessels and organs, so a fracture can cause massive internal bleeding and injury to the bladder or reproductive organs.
Signs and Symptoms: Recognizing Internal Injuries
Internal injuries can be difficult to recognize, especially in the chaos following a crash. However, certain symptoms should never be ignored:
- Severe pain in the abdomen, chest, or back
- Swelling, bruising, or distention of the abdomen
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, or fainting
- Blood in urine, stool, or from the nose or mouth
- Vomiting or coughing up blood
- Pale, clammy skin and confusion (signs of shock)
Anyone experiencing these symptoms after a motorcycle accident should seek emergency medical attention immediately. Early intervention saves lives.
The Importance of Prompt Diagnosis and Treatment
Because internal injuries can be deceptive, it’s crucial for all motorcycle accident victims—even those who feel “okay”—to undergo a comprehensive medical evaluation. Emergency room doctors use blood tests, X-rays, CT scans, ultrasound, and other imaging to detect hidden injuries. In some cases, surgery is necessary to stop bleeding, repair organs, or remove damaged tissue.
Delay in treatment can lead to permanent disability or death. According to the American College of Surgeons’ trauma guidelines, the “golden hour” after injury is critical for intervention. Illinois trauma centers, particularly in Chicago, are equipped to deliver rapid care, but every minute counts.
The Road to Recovery: Medical and Financial Challenges
Recovery from internal injuries is often long and complicated. Depending on the severity, victims may require:
- Hospitalization and intensive care
- Multiple surgeries
- Blood transfusions
- Ongoing medical monitoring
- Rehabilitation and physical therapy
The cost of care is substantial. The Illinois Department of Public Health reports that trauma-related hospitalizations are among the most expensive of all injuries, with the average bill for serious internal injuries running tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars. For many victims, time away from work and long-term disability add to the financial burden, making it difficult to support a family or return to previous employment.
Legal Rights and Compensation for Internal Injuries
Illinois is a fault-based state for vehicle accidents. Victims of motorcycle accidents caused by another driver’s negligence, such as speeding, distracted driving, or failure to yield, are entitled to pursue compensation for:
- Medical expenses (including future care)
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Insurance companies frequently underestimate the true impact of internal injuries, offering settlements that fail to account for future medical needs or long-term consequences. An experienced attorney can make all the difference in ensuring fair compensation.
How Briskman Briskman & Greenberg Can Help
Navigating the aftermath of a motorcycle accident is overwhelming—especially with internal injuries that may not be visible but are deeply life-altering. At Briskman Briskman & Greenberg, we have decades of experience representing injured motorcyclists throughout Chicago and Illinois. Our team understands the complexities of internal injury cases, works with medical experts to document the full extent of harm, and fights tirelessly for the maximum compensation you need to recover and rebuild.
We handle all communication with insurers, gather crucial evidence, and stand by your side throughout the legal process. Our compassionate approach means that your focus remains on healing, while we manage the rest.
Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident
If you or a loved one is involved in a motorcycle crash, take these steps:
- Seek immediate medical attention—even if injuries are not obvious.
- Follow all recommended diagnostic tests and treatments.
- Keep detailed records of medical care, missed work, and related expenses.
- Avoid accepting an insurance settlement before speaking to an attorney.
- Contact Briskman Briskman & Greenberg for a free consultation to discuss your rights.
We’re Here for You
Internal injuries from motorcycle accidents are often silent but can have lasting, devastating effects. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a motorcycle crash in Chicago or anywhere in Illinois, don’t wait. Reach out to Briskman Briskman & Greenberg today for compassionate, expert legal help. We are dedicated to protecting your rights and securing the compensation you need for a brighter future.
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