Not all injuries are visible after an accident. Internal injuries—often hidden and life-threatening—can pose serious risks to your health. The adrenaline surge following an accident might mask pain, delaying symptoms for hours or days. Recognizing the signs and taking swift action is critical for your recovery and protecting your legal rights.
Common Types of Internal Injuries
Some of the most serious injuries after an accident are internal, including:
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
A sudden blow to the head can cause damage to the brain, leading to symptoms like headaches, dizziness, nausea, or cognitive difficulties. Without prompt diagnosis and treatment, TBIs can have long-term consequences.
Internal Bleeding
When blood vessels are damaged, internal bleeding can occur in areas like the abdomen, chest, or head. Signs include abdominal pain, bruising, fainting, or lightheadedness. Internal bleeding can quickly become life-threatening if left untreated.
Organ Damage
High-impact car accidents can cause severe damage to internal organs, such as a ruptured spleen, liver damage, or punctured lungs. Symptoms may include severe pain, difficulty breathing, or signs of shock, such as pale skin and confusion.
Fractures with Internal Impact
Broken ribs or other bones can puncture surrounding tissues or organs, causing further damage. Even if fractures don’t seem severe externally, they may result in critical internal injuries.
Why Internal Injuries Are Often Overlooked
Internal injuries can go unnoticed due to several factors:
- Delayed Symptoms: Internal injuries often develop over time. Pain or discomfort may not appear immediately after the accident.
- Adrenaline: The body’s natural response to trauma releases adrenaline, which can mask pain and other symptoms of injury.
- Focus on External Injuries: Visible wounds, such as cuts or bruises, may divert attention from underlying internal damage.
Because of these challenges, seeking medical attention after any significant accident is essential, even if you feel fine. Early detection can save lives and prevent complications.
Steps to Take if You Suspect Internal Injuries
If you believe you’ve sustained internal injuries after an accident, take these steps:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Don’t delay—internal injuries can worsen quickly. Visit an emergency room or urgent care clinic for evaluation.
- Document Symptoms and Diagnoses. To strengthen your case, Keep track of all medical evaluations, treatments, and test results.
- Follow Medical Advice: Adhere to your doctor’s treatment plan to ensure a full recovery.
- Keep Detailed Records: Save all receipts and documentation related to medical expenses, lost wages, and any other costs resulting from the accident.
- Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer: An experienced attorney can help you understand your rights, assess the value of your claim, and pursue compensation for your injuries.
How Stein & Shulman Can Help
At Stein & Shulman, we understand the hidden dangers of internal injuries and their devastating impact on your life. Our team has extensive experience handling personal injury cases involving invisible injuries. We’re dedicated to holding negligent parties accountable and securing the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, pain, and suffering.
We know how overwhelming it can feel to navigate the legal process while recovering from serious injuries. That’s why we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Don’t wait to take action—call today for a free consultation.
