Car accidents often cause obvious injuries such as cuts, bruises, or broken bones, but internal injuries are more subtle and deadly. Recognizing these injuries as quickly as possible can be crucial, as they may not show symptoms immediately. Internal injuries from car crashes occur when the impact causes damage to organs, blood vessels, or tissues, often leading to life-threatening complications. As personal injury attorneys in Georgia, we believe it’s essential for accident victims to understand the potential signs of internal injuries, what steps to take if they suspect an injury, and the legal options available to them if these injuries were due to someone else’s negligence.
In car accidents, various internal injuries can occur, and each type comes with unique risks. Here are the most common internal injuries:
Organ Damage – The force of a car crash can cause serious injuries to the liver, spleen, and kidneys. Organ damage often leads to internal bleeding and other severe complications that require immediate medical attention.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) – This type of injury happens when the head sustains a jolt or impact, causing the brain to hit the skull’s interior. These brain injuries can lead to cognitive problems, memory loss, and even personality changes.
Broken Ribs and Lung Injuries – Broken ribs can puncture or damage internal organs, such as the lungs. Collapsed lungs (pneumothorax) or internal bleeding in the chest (hemothorax) are serious conditions that can arise from rib fractures.
Internal Bleeding – While it may not be immediately visible, internal bleeding is life-threatening and often occurs after high-impact collisions. It can lead to a condition called “shock,” where the body’s organs do not receive enough blood.
Recognizing the signs of internal injuries is very important because they often don’t appear immediately after an accident. Some symptoms can take hours or even days to manifest. Here are key symptoms that may indicate an internal injury:
Abdominal Pain and Swelling – Internal bleeding in the abdomen can cause pain, tenderness, and visible swelling. If the abdomen feels hard or distended, it could be a sign of internal bleeding or organ damage.
Dizziness or Fainting – Dizziness, fainting, or general weakness could be a sign of shock due to internal bleeding, which prevents sufficient oxygen from reaching vital organs.
Nausea and Vomiting – Nausea and vomiting are common after a traumatic event, but if they persist, they could indicate a traumatic brain injury or internal organ damage.
Shortness of Breath – Difficulty breathing can point to lung injuries, particularly if a broken rib has punctured a lung or caused other internal issues.
Severe Headache or Confusion – Head injuries can be dangerous, especially if there’s a loss of consciousness, confusion, or memory problems. These symptoms are consistent with traumatic brain injury.
If another driver’s negligence caused your injuries, you have a legal right to pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other accident-related expenses. Georgia’s negligence laws hold at-fault drivers responsible for damages they cause in accidents. However, your attorney must prove that the other driver’s actions directly caused your injuries.
For car accident cases involving serious injuries like internal trauma, Georgia’s Modified Comparative Negligence law (O.C.G.A. § 51-12-33) applies. This law allows accident victims to seek compensation as long as they are less than 50% at fault for the accident. If you are partially at fault, your compensation may be reduced proportionally.
When it comes to pursuing financial compensation, medical records are vital. Internal injuries are often hard to detect initially, which is why timely medical attention and thorough documentation are a necessity. Medical records that detail the extent of your injuries and treatments can support your claim by providing evidence of the injury’s severity.
In some cases, insurance companies might attempt to argue that your internal injuries weren’t directly caused by the accident. However, medical records can show the timeline of your injuries, helping to establish a direct connection between the car crash and your condition.
If you experience any symptoms of internal injury after a car accident, seek medical care immediately, even if you think the injuries might be minor. In addition to getting medical treatment, it’s wise to document the details of the accident, gather contact information from witnesses, and consult with a Georgia car accident attorney to understand your legal options.
Legal representation can help you file a personal injury claim, negotiate with insurance companies, and seek fair compensation under Georgia law. Internal injuries can result in extensive medical costs, long-term health complications, and loss of income, all of which may be recoverable through legal action.
Medical documentation helps establish a direct link between the car accident and your internal injuries, which is critical for legal claims. In Georgia, insurance companies may argue that your injuries are unrelated or pre-existing. Having a clear record of diagnosis, treatment, and medical expenses supports your claim for fair compensation, helping you recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Yes, Georgia’s Modified Comparative Negligence law allows you to seek compensation if you’re less than 50% responsible for the accident. However, any compensation awarded may be reduced based on your degree of fault. For instance, if you were found to be 20% responsible, your compensation would be reduced by that amount. An experienced car accident attorney can help you understand how this law applies to your specific case.
If you suspect internal injuries, seek medical care immediately and document the accident details. After medical treatment, consult a Georgia car accident attorney to explore your options for filing a claim. Your attorney can gather evidence, handle negotiations with insurance companies, and help pursue compensation for your injuries. Quick action can ensure your rights are protected and improve your chances of a successful claim.
If you’ve suffered internal injuries in a car accident, Shani O. Brooks P.C. Attorneys at Law is here to help. We understand the complexities of Georgia personal injury law and are dedicated to seeking fair compensation for our clients. Our team will handle the legal aspects of your case so you can focus on recovery. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can assist you with your personal injury claim.
Don’t wait to get the help you need. Contact our Atlanta car accident attorney at Shani O. Brooks P.C. Attorneys at Law by calling 404-920-4736 to receive your free consultation. We serve clients in Atlanta and throughout Georgia, providing compassionate, dedicated legal support from our office in Atlanta, Georgia. Let us help you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.