Car accidents are so sudden and traumatic that most people are just happy if they can walk away from a wreck with nothing more than a few bruises.
Unfortunately, people walk away from car crashes all the time only to collapse later with devastating internal injuries.
What are the signs of internal injuries after a wreck?
Seek immediate medical attention at a hospital if you spot any of the following signs after a wreck:
- Abdominal pain: With or without swelling, this can indicate bleeding in your internal organs and bowels.
- Chest pain or pressure: These can be a sign of rib fractures, bruised lungs or internal bleeding.
- Difficulty breathing: Shortness of breath can signal everything from broken ribs to lung injuries.
- Weakness or fatigue: While temporary exhaustion might be normal after a wreck, it isn’t normal for the fatigue or weakness to increase.
- Blood in urine or bowl movements: This can indicate that you have hidden damage to your kidneys, bladder or intestines.
- Rapid heartbeat or low blood pressure: Either can indicate that you are rapidly approaching a state of shock from internal bleeding.
You should be particularly wary of internal injuries if you have bruising and pain where your seat belt rested against your body. The force of the wreck and the abrupt locking of the seat belt can sometimes lead to injuries to a victim’s heart, lungs, kidney, liver or intestines. “Seat belt syndrome” is a well-known post-accident condition that can have tragic outcomes.
If you were in a wreck or your loved one was recently injured in one and the injuries turned out to be more serious than you initially thought, the insurance company involved may try to challenge your claim. Legal guidance can help you protect your interests.