Disclaimer: This article contains general information, but it is not medical advice. If you have been injured, we suggest you seek medical attention if you haven’t already.
As everyone knows, car accidents can lead to property damage, serious bodily injuries, or even death in some cases. However, victims can sometimes walk away from car accidents with more than just visible injuries.
Internal injuries are hidden injuries that are less apparent, or even silent at first, and potentially life-threatening if left undetected. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, approximately 3 million people in the U.S. are injured in car accidents each year, with a significant portion suffering from internal injuries.
Keep reading to learn about the various types of internal injuries that can result from car accidents, their symptoms, and why seeking immediate medical attention is crucial for your health and potential legal claims.
Common Types of Internal Injuries After Car Accidents
Car accidents can cause a variety of internal injuries due to the sudden impact and force exerted on the body during a collision. As these injuries can become serious very quickly, it’s important to understand the most common types of injuries and a few warning signs of each.
Internal Bleeding
Internal bleeding is a serious condition that can occur during a car accident when blood vessels are damaged or ruptured. This type of injury can happen in various areas of the body, including the brain, abdomen, and chest cavity.
In the brain, internal bleeding can lead to a condition called intracranial hemorrhage, which can cause increased pressure on the brain and potentially life-threatening complications. Abdominal bleeding may involve organs such as the liver or spleen, while chest cavity bleeding can affect the heart and lungs.
The danger of internal bleeding lies in its often-hidden nature. Without immediate medical attention, it can lead to shock, organ failure, and even death. This is why it's considered a medical emergency and requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Organ Damage
During a car accident, the force of impact can cause significant damage to internal organs. The liver and spleen, located in the upper right and left abdomen, respectively, are particularly vulnerable due to their size and location.
The kidneys, positioned in the lower back, can also be injured in a collision. Damage to these organs can result in impaired function, internal bleeding, and potentially life-threatening complications if not addressed promptly.
Lung injuries are another concern in car accidents. The impact can cause a pneumothorax (collapsed lung) or pulmonary contusion (bruised lung), both of which can severely affect breathing and oxygen levels in the body.
If left untreated, organ damage can lead to long-term health issues, including chronic pain, reduced organ function, and, in severe cases, the need for organ transplantation.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
Traumatic brain injuries can occur in car accidents even without a direct strike to the head. The sudden acceleration and deceleration forces experienced during a collision can cause the brain to move within the skull, leading to various types of injuries.
Concussions are a common form of TBI, often resulting from the brain being shaken inside the skull. While generally considered mild, concussions can still have significant short-term and sometimes long-term effects on cognitive function.
More severe forms of TBI include contusions (bruising of the brain tissue) and diffuse axonal injuries (widespread damage to the brain's nerve fibers). These injuries can have profound effects on a person's cognitive abilities, motor skills, and overall quality of life.
It's important to monitor for symptoms of TBI in the days and weeks following a car accident, as some signs may not be immediately apparent. Persistent headaches, confusion, memory problems, or changes in mood and behavior could all indicate a traumatic brain injury.
Warning Signs and Symptoms of Internal Injuries
Internal injuries pose a unique challenge because they may not always present immediate or obvious symptoms. This delay in symptom onset can make them particularly dangerous, as victims may not realize the severity of their condition until it becomes critical.
The body's stress response after an accident can mask pain and other symptoms, leading to a delayed onset of noticeable signs. Additionally, some internal injuries may worsen gradually over time, only becoming apparent hours or days after the incident.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms of internal injuries can appear immediately after the accident or develop over time. Here are some warning signs to watch for:
- Abdominal pain or swelling: This could indicate internal bleeding or organ damage in the abdominal cavity. This pain may be accompanied by tenderness to the touch or visible bruising.
- Chest pain or difficulty breathing: This might suggest injury to the lungs, ribs, or heart. These symptoms could be signs of pneumothorax, pulmonary contusion, or even cardiac trauma.
- Dizziness, confusion, or loss of consciousness: Potential indicators of a traumatic brain injury or internal bleeding. Even if these symptoms seem to resolve quickly, they warrant immediate medical evaluation.
- Persistent headaches: These could be a sign of a traumatic brain injury or internal bleeding in the skull, especially when they worsen over time. These headaches may be accompanied by other neurological symptoms, such as difficulty concentrating or changes in sleep patterns.
- Unexplained bruising: This may indicate internal bleeding that has gradually seeped to the surface, especially on the abdomen or flanks. This type of bruising often appears days after the initial injury.
- Changes in vision: Blurred or double vision could be symptoms of a traumatic brain injury or increased intracranial pressure. These visual disturbances may not be noticeable immediately after the accident but can develop over time.
The Importance of Prompt Medical Evaluation
Seeking immediate medical attention after a car accident is crucial, even if there are no visible injuries or immediate symptoms. Many internal injuries can have a delayed onset of symptoms, and early detection is key to preventing serious complications.
A thorough medical evaluation can identify hidden injuries that may not be apparent to the accident victim. This early detection allows for prompt treatment, potentially preventing long-term health issues and improving overall outcomes.
Additionally, a timely medical examination creates a documented record of injuries sustained in the accident. This documentation can be invaluable for any future legal claims or insurance disputes related to the incident.
Diagnostic Tests for Internal Injuries
Medical professionals use a variety of diagnostic tests to detect internal injuries that are not visible from the outside. These tests are essential for a comprehensive evaluation and can reveal the full extent of injuries sustained in a car accident.
Computed Tomography (CT) scans use X-rays and computer processing to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body. CT scans are particularly useful for identifying internal bleeding, organ damage, and certain types of brain injuries. For instance, they can detect intracranial hemorrhages or liver lacerations that may not be apparent through external examination.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses powerful magnets and radio waves to produce detailed images of internal structures. MRIs are especially valuable for diagnosing soft tissue injuries and certain types of brain injuries that may not be visible on a CT scan. They can reveal subtle brain injuries like diffuse axonal injuries or small contusions.
Ultrasound examinations use high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of internal organs. This non-invasive test can be particularly helpful in detecting internal bleeding in the abdominal cavity, such as injuries to the liver or spleen.
Blood tests can provide important information about internal injuries by measuring levels of certain substances in the blood. For example, elevated levels of liver enzymes can indicate liver damage, while increased levels of cardiac enzymes might suggest heart muscle injury.
Legal Implications of Internal Injuries in Car Accident Cases
Internal injuries can significantly complicate car accident claims due to their often hidden nature and potential for long-term health consequences. These types of injuries may require extensive medical treatment and can have a substantial impact on a victim's quality of life and ability to work.
The value of a personal injury claim involving internal injuries can be significantly higher than cases with only visible injuries. This is due to several factors:
- Higher medical costs: Internal injuries often require extensive diagnostic tests, surgeries, and long-term treatment.
- Longer recovery periods: This can lead to more lost wages and a greater impact on the victim's life.
- Potential for long-term or permanent disability: Some internal injuries may result in chronic conditions or permanent impairment.
- Pain and suffering: The physical and emotional toll of dealing with severe internal injuries can be substantial.
Having experienced legal representation is crucial when dealing with cases involving internal injuries. A knowledgeable attorney can help ensure that all aspects of the injury are properly documented and accounted for in any legal claims or settlement negotiations.
Documenting Internal Injuries for Legal Claims
Thorough medical documentation is essential in building a strong legal case for internal injuries sustained in a car accident. This documentation serves as evidence of the injuries and their connection to the accident.
Medical records, including emergency room reports, diagnostic test results, and treatment plans, provide a detailed account of the injuries and their progression over time. These records can be crucial in demonstrating the severity and long-term impact of internal injuries.
Expert testimony from medical professionals can also help prove the extent and impact of internal injuries. These experts can explain complex medical concepts to a jury and provide professional opinions on the long-term prognosis and necessary future treatment.
Challenges in Proving Internal Injuries
Victims may face several challenges when seeking compensation for internal injuries. Insurance companies may attempt to downplay the severity of these injuries or argue that they are related to pre-existing conditions rather than the accident.
The delayed onset of symptoms associated with some internal injuries can also complicate claims. Insurance adjusters may question why medical treatment wasn't sought immediately if the injuries were serious.
Experienced legal representation can help overcome these challenges by:
- Gathering comprehensive medical evidence, including expert opinions, to establish the link between the accident and the injuries.
- Demonstrating the full impact of the injuries on the victim's life, including future medical needs and loss of earning capacity.
- Negotiating effectively with insurance companies, countering their attempts to minimize the claim.
- If necessary, present a compelling case in court that clearly illustrates the severity and consequences of the internal injuries.
The Role of Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Insurance
Florida is a no-fault insurance state, requiring all drivers to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. PIP insurance is designed to cover medical expenses and lost wages regardless of who was at fault in the accident.
In Florida, PIP coverage typically pays for 80% of necessary and reasonable medical expenses up to $10,000. This coverage can be crucial in covering initial medical evaluations and treatments for internal injuries.
However, it's important to note that severe internal injuries often result in medical expenses that exceed PIP coverage limits. In such cases, victims may need to pursue additional compensation through a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver.
Speak with a Car Accident Attorney About Your Case
Internal injuries following a car accident can have serious, long-lasting effects on a person's health and well-being. Being aware of the potential for these hidden injuries and seeking prompt medical attention is crucial for both health and legal reasons.
Remember, even if you feel fine immediately after an accident, some internal injuries may not manifest symptoms for hours or days.
At Weinstein Legal Team, we have a proven track record of successfully handling cases involving severe internal injuries. Our attorneys understand the unique challenges these cases present and have the expertise to ensure our clients receive fair compensation for their injuries.
Contact Weinstein Legal Team today at 888-626-1108 or click here to schedule a free case review with an attorney. Let our experienced team guide you through the legal process, protect your best interests, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
