Internal Organ Damage After a Car Accident in Metairie

Hidden Injuries and Compensation at The Law Office of Lawyer Don

Internal organ damage is one of the most dangerous consequences of a car accident. These injuries often occur without visible signs and may not cause immediate symptoms. Because internal bleeding or organ trauma can worsen quickly, they are medical emergencies that require immediate attention.



Even moderate damage can lead to long-term health complications, permanent disability, or significant financial strain. When someone suffers internal organ damage due to another driver’s negligence, he deserves compensation that reflects the seriousness of the injury. Lawyer Donald D’Aunoy Jr. helps injured individuals pursue claims that account for the full physical, emotional, and financial impact.

How Car Accidents Cause Internal Organ Damage

The force of a collision can impact the body in ways that are not immediately obvious. While cuts and bruises appear on the surface, internal injuries happen beneath the skin, often caused by blunt-force trauma, crushing pressure, or rapid deceleration.

Common ways internal organ damage occurs include:

• Seatbelt compression, which may injure abdominal organs in high-speed crashes
• Airbag deployment, which can cause chest trauma or lung injuries
• Impact with the steering wheel or dashboard, which can harm the liver, spleen, or kidneys
• Side-impact collisions, which place uneven pressure on organs and ribs
• Rollover accidents, where crushing forces can damage multiple organ systems
• Fractured ribs, which may puncture or lacerate the lungs or liver

Common Types of Internal Organ Injuries

Internal organ damage varies widely depending on the circumstances of the crash. Some injuries require emergency surgery, while others may lead to long-term health issues.

Liver and Spleen Injuries

The liver and spleen are especially vulnerable during car accidents. These organs can tear or rupture under sudden pressure. Internal bleeding may be severe, and delayed treatment can be life-threatening.

Kidney Damage

The kidneys sit close to the back, and blunt trauma from seatbelts, side impacts, or rear-end collisions can cause bruising, lacerations, or impaired kidney function.

Lung Injuries

Collapsed lungs, known as pneumothorax, can occur when ribs fracture or when the chest absorbs heavy impact. Air leaks around the lungs can make breathing difficult and require immediate medical intervention.

Bowel and Intestinal Injuries

Rapid deceleration can cause the intestines to tear, leading to internal infection, severe abdominal pain, or life-threatening complications.

Cardiac Contusion

The heart itself can bruise during forceful impact. While it may sound minor, it can cause dangerous arrhythmias or impaired cardiac function.

Internal Bleeding

Internal bleeding is one of the most dangerous complications because it can be hidden. Symptoms such as weakness, fainting, or abdominal swelling may appear only after significant blood loss.

These injuries require prompt evaluation, imaging, and sometimes emergency surgery to prevent permanent harm.