Following a car accident, it’s not uncommon for those involved to sustain injuries. Victims can suffer visible as well as hidden internal injuries, some of which can be life-threatening. As such, understanding which internal injuries are commonly caused by car accidents can help ensure you receive proper treatment. Please continue reading as we explore what you should know about these matters and the importance of connecting with an adept New York City Car Accident Attorney to help you fight for the justice you deserve.
What Are Internal Injuries?
There are many ways a person can sustain internal injuries from a car accident. It’s important to understand that internal injuries refer to damage inflicted on the organs inside the body. Unlike external injuries, these injuries are not immediately evident, making them particularly dangerous.
Generally, the most common way people sustain internal injuries is through blunt force trauma and deceleration. The sudden violent force of a crash can cause significant damage to internal organs by crushing or tearing blood vessels. For instance, if you strike your head on the steering wheel, you can suffer a traumatic brain injury (TBI). When deceleration brings the body to an abrupt stop, it can cause internal organs to shift or continue moving even after the body has halted, leading to tears, ruptures, and internal bleeding. Essentially, the disparity in motion can cause a range of internal injuries, from minor bruising and contusions to life-threatening conditions like internal bleeding. Some of the most common internal injuries related to car accidents include:
- Broken ribs
- Internal bleeding
- Pneumothorax (collapsed lungs)
- Organ damage from trauma
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Ruptured spleen
- Spinal cord damage
- Damage to the abdominal aorta
The severity of the internal injuries depends on the speed of the crash, the direction of impact, whether seatbelts are worn or airbags deployed, and the position of occupants within the vehicle.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Internal Injuries from a Car Accident?
As mentioned above, internal injuries usually don’t have any visible external signs. As such, it’s imperative to seek medical attention after any significant car accident, even if you feel okay. The hidden nature of these injuries can go undetected for days, during which the damage can worsen. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should seek emergency care:
- Abdominal pain
- Bleeding
- Blurry vision
- Bruising in unexpected areas
- Headaches
- Fainting
- Nausea and vomiting
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath and difficulty breathing
- Confusion
- Altered mental state
- Lightheadedness
If you or a loved one are experiencing any of the above symptoms after a car accident, it’s in your best interest to seek immediate medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.
At Swerling Law, we are committed to helping our clients get the compensation they deserve and need to get their lives back on track. If you’ve been injured in a car accident due to someone else’s negligence, please don’t hesitate to contact a seasoned attorney who can help guide you through these difficult times. Connect with our firm today to learn how we fight for you.