December 13, 2023 | Reading Time: 6 min 
Summary:
- Personal injury accidents like car crashes or sports accidents can cause internal injuries that may be difficult to detect.
- Though you may not notice an internal injury at first, they can be very serious conditions that carry long-term consequences.
- Internal injuries can include organ damage, cracked ribs, or internal bleeding.
- Working with a personal injury lawyer can help you defend your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
Personal injury accidents can cause serious injuries, like broken bones or blood loss. However, the hidden dangers of internal injuries are often overlooked. These injuries aren’t readily visible and are hard to detect, but are often very serious.
If you or a loved one has suffered an internal injury, and you believe someone else’s negligence is to blame, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. Getting thorough medical treatment right away is key for any case you may file later on.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Personal Injury Accident to Prevent Further Internal Damage
After any personal injury accident, you should seek immediate medical attention. Even if you feel fine, you may be experiencing internal bleeding or other types of internal injury that may not be obvious at first.
Identifying Internal Injuries
While some internal injuries manifest immediately, others might go unnoticed for hours or even days. Be vigilant and look out for these warning signs:
- Abdominal pain or tenderness
- Unusual bruising or swelling
- Internal bleeding (bloody stools, vomiting blood)
- Difficulty breathing
- Headache or dizziness
- Sudden weakness or fatigue
- Changes in vision or consciousness
Let your doctor know if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms after an accident. They may not be serious, but they also may be a sign of potentially deadly internal injuries.
Types of Internal Injuries Caused by Personal Injury Accidents
The term internal injury includes a broad range of damage that may occur from a personal injury accident.
- Blunt force trauma can be caused by sudden, forceful impacts like car accidents or falls. Organs like the liver or the kidneys may be bruised or otherwise damaged, and you may suffer internal bleeding or cracked ribs.
- Penetrating trauma is when a sharp object like a knife or glass penetrates the skin and causes internal damage. This can include punctured lungs or stomach and serious internal bleeding.
- Soft tissue damage is often overlooked, but personal injury accidents may cause trauma to the muscles or tendons, making it difficult to move or breathe properly.
Treatment Options and Recovery
Treatment options for internal injuries can vary depending on the type and severity of the injuries. Most internal injuries tend to be severe, and recovery can be painful and time-consuming.
Bed rest is often recommended to recover from internal injuries, as further movement can exacerbate the damage. Medication like painkillers and antibiotics may be prescribed to aid recovery.
In some cases, surgery is required to stop internal bleeding or repair damaged organs.
Rehabilitation exercises and physical therapy may be recommended to aid in recovery as well.
With the unique danger presented by internal injuries, it is especially important to work with doctors and follow whatever treatment plan is recommended. You can’t always tell what’s going on internally, and you don’t want to risk permanent damage if something goes wrong.
The Importance of Documenting Your Injuries and Treatment
If your internal injuries have been caused by someone else’s negligence, it’s important to keep thorough records of any injuries and their treatment. You may be able to recover compensation for the damages you suffer, and evidence like medical records will be key to presenting a strong case. Medical records can demonstrate the intensity of your injuries and their effect on your life and provide proof of how much it costs to treat them.
Any other evidence collected, like photos of the scene of the accident or eyewitness accounts, can also help present the best possible case. Be sure to save any documentation you can.
How an Experienced New York Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
If you sustained internal injuries as a result of someone else’s negligent actions, a New York personal injury lawyer can help you file a claim and receive compensation for your damages.
Navigating the complexities of the legal system can be very difficult without expert knowledge. An experienced attorney can help you with this process by:
- Investigating the incident and collecting evidence
- Negotiating with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement
- Filing a lawsuit and representing you in court if necessary
The team at Cellino Law understands the physical, mental, and financial toll that internal injuries can take, and we’re ready to defend your rights. To learn more about how we can help or to schedule a free case evaluation, please contact us online or at (800) 320-HELP.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the long-term effects of internal injuries?
The long-term effects of internal injuries depend on the type and severity of the injury. Some people might suffer from chronic pain, organ dysfunction, or other forms of disability.
Early diagnosis and proper treatment are key to mitigating these long-term effects. You should seek medical attention right away after any accident that could cause internal injury.
Can I receive compensation for an internal injury?
If your internal injuries were received as a result of someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for damages such as:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of quality of life
- And more
The available compensation is different from case to case, so get in touch with an experienced New York personal injury lawyer for an evaluation of your unique circumstances.
Do I need to seek immediate medical attention after a personal injury accident?
You should always seek medical attention right away after a personal injury accident, even if you feel fine. You may have injuries that you’re not aware of, and prompt treatment is essential for a speedy recovery and minimal long-term damage.
The evidence provided in medical records will also be crucial if you decide to file a personal injury claim to recover compensation for your damages.
Content checked by the personal injury attorney Ross Cellino. As a family man and a trial attorney, I pride myself on winning cases and serving the community. With over 35 years of experience, I understand the function of a jury, how juries arrive at conclusions, and the role that the jury plays in administering justice. I know how to win cases. You can find us in Manhattan, Buffalo, Melville, Rochester, Brooklyn, The Bronx, Queens and other locations throughout New York.