Motorcycle accidents can result in a variety of internal injuries, some of which can be life-threatening. Here are some of the most common internal injuries that can occur.
One of the most serious injuries that can result from a motorcycle accident is a traumatic brain injury (TBI). TBIs can happen when the head hits the ground or an object, causing the brain to move and slam against the skull, leading to bruising, bleeding, and swelling. Even if a rider wore a helmet, they can still suffer a TBI if the impact was severe enough. The resulting damage to the brain can range from a concussion that heals within a few weeks to severe brain damage that leads to permanent impairments and the victim requiring ongoing care and assistance, or even death. Symptoms of a TBI can include headaches, dizziness, memory loss, and difficulty concentrating.
The spinal cord is responsible for transmitting signals between the brain and the rest of the body. When the spinal cord is damaged, it can result in loss of sensation, movement, or function. SCI can occur when the spinal cord is compressed, stretched, or severed. Symptoms of SCI can include paralysis, loss of bladder or bowel control, and difficulty breathing. SCI can be permanent and require lifelong medical care.
Motorcycle accidents can cause damage to internal organs like the liver, spleen, and kidneys. This damage can result in internal bleeding, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Symptoms of internal organ damage can include pain in the abdomen, chest, or back, difficulty breathing, and fainting. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the damage.
While broken bones are often considered external injuries, they can also occur internally after a motorcycle accident. For example, a fractured rib can puncture a lung, leading to internal bleeding and difficulty breathing. Similarly, a broken bone in the leg can cause damage to blood vessels or nerves, leading to internal bleeding or loss of sensation.
This type of bleeding occurs when there is damage to blood vessels inside the body, causing blood to leak into surrounding tissues or organs. The severity of internal bleeding can vary depending on the location and extent of the damage. In a motorcycle accident, internal bleeding can occur as a result of blunt force trauma to the abdomen or chest. The signs to watch for include blood in urine or stool, large bruises or skin discoloration, vomiting or coughing up blood, headaches, feeling light-headed or fainting, confusion, slurred speech, weakness, and low blood pressure.
Unlike external injuries that are visible, internal injuries can be harder to detect, and symptoms may not appear until hours or even days after the accident. This can delay diagnosis and treatment, which can be critical in preventing complications or even death. Therefore, seeking medical attention immediately after leaving the scene of a motorcycle accident should be the top priority, even if you feel fine and your injuries seem minor.