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Internal bleeding after a Car Accident
When you think about injuries from a car accident, you might picture broken bones, bruises, or cuts. But some of the most serious injuries are the ones you can’t see, like internal bleeding. Internal bleeding, also known as internal hemorrhage, occurs when blood vessels or organs are damaged, causing blood to leak inside the body. In a busy city like Chicago, car accidents are a common occurrence, and the risk of internal injuries is real. Your car accident attorney at Briskman Briskman & Greenberg will be dedicated to helping you understand the process of getting compensation.
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What is Internal Bleeding and Why Is It So Dangerous?
Internal bleeding is bleeding that happens inside the body, often without visible wounds. It can result from blunt force trauma, which is common in car accidents. For example, when your body is jolted against a steering wheel, dashboard, or seat belt, the impact can rupture blood vessels or organs. The real danger is that you might not notice any symptoms right away. Unlike an open wound, internal bleeding can remain hidden until it becomes life-threatening.
Why is this form of injury so perilous? Without immediate treatment, internal bleeding can cause shock, organ failure, or even death. Blood loss inside the body can put pressure on organs, limit oxygen delivery, and create a cascade of medical complications. Many people ignore minor pain after an accident, thinking they are just sore. But what if that pain signals something far more serious? That’s why it’s crucial to seek medical attention after any significant car accident, even if you feel okay at first.
Common Causes of Internal Bleeding in Chicago Car Accidents
Car accidents in Chicago can lead to internal bleeding in a variety of ways. The force of a crash, even at low speeds, can cause significant trauma. Here are a few scenarios:
- Seat Belt Injuries – While seat belts save lives, they can also cause bruising and internal damage across the chest and abdomen during a collision.
- Airbag Deployment – Airbags deploy with great force. While they cushion impact, they can also cause blunt injuries, potentially damaging internal organs.
- Crushing Injuries – When a car is hit from the side or crushed, the torso can be compressed, leading to ruptures in blood vessels or organs.
- Ejection from the Vehicle – If a person is thrown from the car, the risk of severe internal injury increases dramatically.
- Impact with Interior Objects – Striking the steering wheel, dashboard, or even the back of a seat can cause blunt trauma, leading to internal bleeding.
It’s important to remember that not all internal injuries are immediately obvious. You don’t have to be in a major crash to suffer serious internal injuries—sometimes even minor accidents can have hidden consequences.
Signs and Symptoms: How to Recognize Internal Bleeding After an Accident
How can you tell if you have internal bleeding after a car accident? The symptoms can be subtle at first, which is why so many people overlook them. Some key warning signs include:
- Severe Abdominal Pain or Swelling – Internal bleeding in the abdomen can cause pain, tenderness, or noticeable swelling.
- Bruising – Deep purple or blue marks, especially on the chest or abdomen, may indicate bleeding under the skin.
- Shortness of Breath or Chest Pain – Bleeding around the lungs or heart can cause breathing difficulties.
- Weakness, Dizziness, or Fainting – As blood loss progresses, you may become lightheaded or weak.
- Rapid Heart Rate or Low Blood Pressure – These are signs of shock, meaning the body isn’t getting enough blood flow.
- Confusion or Loss of Consciousness – As blood loss affects the brain, mental confusion or fainting can occur.
Have you or a loved one experienced any of these symptoms after a car crash in Chicago? Never take chances with your health. Even if you’re unsure, it’s best to get checked out by a doctor. Prompt medical attention can make all the difference.
Immediate Steps to Take if You Suspect Internal Bleeding
If you suspect internal bleeding after a car accident in Chicago, what should you do? First and foremost, prioritize your safety and health. Call 911 or go to the emergency room right away if you have any symptoms, even if they seem mild. Internal bleeding can worsen quickly, so waiting is never worth the risk.
Here’s what you can do:
- Stay Still and Calm – Movement can increase bleeding, so try to stay still until medical professionals arrive.
- Call for Help – If you’re alone, dial 911 as soon as you notice symptoms.
- Keep Track of Symptoms – Be ready to describe your pain, dizziness, bruising, or any other changes to first responders or doctors.
- Don’t Eat or Drink – In case surgery is needed, it’s best to avoid food or drink until you’ve been seen by a doctor.
- Follow Medical Advice – Internal bleeding almost always requires hospitalization and sometimes surgery or blood transfusions. Follow all recommended treatments and attend all follow-up appointments.
At auto accident attorneys at Briskman Briskman & Greenberg, we understand how overwhelming a car accident can be. Our team can help you navigate both the medical and legal aftermath, ensuring you get the care and compensation you deserve.
Your Legal Rights: Pursuing Compensation for Internal Bleeding Injuries
If you’ve suffered internal bleeding from a car accident in Chicago, you may be entitled to significant compensation. Illinois law allows accident victims to seek damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. But pursuing these claims can be complex, especially when dealing with insurance companies that may try to minimize your injuries.
What can you do to protect your rights? Start by documenting everything medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and photographs of your injuries. The more evidence you have, the stronger your case will be. It’s also wise to consult a personal injury attorney who understands the nuances of Illinois law and can advocate for your best interests.
For example, internal bleeding often results in extensive medical treatment, time off work, and lasting pain. Don’t let insurance adjusters downplay your suffering. Briskman Briskman & Greenberg has helped many Chicago accident victims get the full compensation they need for a complete recovery. We’re ready to fight for you, too.
FAQs About Internal Bleeding After a Car Accident in Chicago
How soon after a car accident can internal bleeding symptoms appear?
Symptoms of internal bleeding may appear immediately or develop over several hours or even days. Some people feel fine at first but begin experiencing pain, dizziness, or swelling later on. That’s why it’s critical to get a thorough medical evaluation after any car accident, even if you don’t notice symptoms right away.
What types of internal injuries are most common in car accidents?
Common internal injuries include bleeding in the abdomen (often from liver or spleen damage), bleeding in the chest cavity, or injuries to organs like the lungs or kidneys. Blood vessel tears and brain bleeds from head trauma are also possible.
Can I recover damages even if my symptoms were delayed?
Yes. Illinois law recognizes that some injuries, such as internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent. As long as you can show that your injuries were caused by the car accident, you can seek compensation, even if your symptoms were delayed.
Do I need a lawyer if I have internal bleeding from a car accident?
While you are not required to hire a lawyer, having professional legal guidance is highly recommended. An attorney can help you gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the claims process. This is especially important with serious injuries like internal bleeding, where future medical needs and long-term effects may be at stake.
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