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Internal Organ Damage from Car Accidents
Some of the most severe and potentially fatal injuries from car accidents occur beneath the surface—known as internal organ damage. Unlike cuts or broken bones, organ injuries may not be immediately visible, but they can cause life-threatening complications if not treated quickly.
What Is Internal Organ Damage?
Internal organ damage refers to trauma inflicted on vital organs during a car accident due to blunt force impact or penetration caused by fractured ribs or debris. These injuries may lead to internal bleeding, loss of organ function, infection, or death. Common types of organ damage include:
- Liver or Spleen Lacerations: These organs are especially vulnerable during side or frontal impacts. Ruptures can cause rapid internal bleeding.
- Kidney Damage: Trauma to the back or abdomen may bruise or tear the kidneys, leading to blood in the urine and severe pain.
- Lung Injuries: Cracked ribs or chest trauma can puncture a lung, leading to pneumothorax (collapsed lung) and respiratory failure.
- Bowel or Intestinal Damage: High-impact crashes can tear the intestines, causing dangerous leakage of digestive fluids and requiring emergency surgery.
- Heart or Aortic Injuries: In rare but severe cases, blunt force to the chest can cause cardiac contusions or damage to the aorta, both of which are often fatal without immediate medical attention.
How Car Accidents Cause Internal Organ Damage
Common causes of internal organ trauma in collisions include:
While seat belts prevent ejection, the force they exert on the abdomen or chest during a crash can damage underlying organs.
Airbag Deployment
Airbags deploy with explosive force, which can injure the chest and face if the passenger is too close.
Blunt Trauma from Vehicle Interiors
Victims often strike the steering wheel, dashboard, or side panels with significant force.
Crushing Injuries
Rollover crashes and side-impact collisions can compress the body and organs between surfaces or debris.
Warning Signs of Internal Organ Damage
Internal injuries often do not show immediate signs, which makes them particularly dangerous. Delayed symptoms to watch for include:
- Abdominal pain, swelling, or bruising
- Shortness of breath or chest pain
- Dizziness or fainting
- Blood in urine or stool
- Vomiting or coughing up blood
- Confusion or loss of consciousness
After a crash it is critical to seek medical attention immediately even if you feel fine initially. A doctor can diagnose internal organ damage using imaging tests such as CT scans, ultrasounds, or X-rays to detect bleeding, organ tears, or internal swelling. Blood tests may also reveal signs of internal bleeding or organ failure.
How a Lawyer Can Help with an Internal Injury Claim
Internal injuries often result in expensive medical treatment, long recovery periods, and significant lost income. A Philadelphia Car Accident Attorney can play a crucial role in helping you recover the compensation you need to cover these losses. They have the resources to investigate the accident, gather medical records, consult with experts, document the full extent of the injury, and collect other vital evidence to build your case. A lawyer also negotiates with insurers and, if necessary, files a lawsuit on your behalf. Internal injury cases are often severe, and having a knowledgeable advocate can be the difference between a denied claim and fair compensation.
Contact Us Today
If you or a loved one has suffered internal organ damage from a car accident, call Rosenbaum & Associates at (215) 569-0200 or message us online. Our trusted Philadelphia Car Accident Attorney can help you explore your legal options in a free consultation.