In the violent chaos of a truck accident, some injuries are immediately obvious—broken bones, deep cuts, and severe abrasions. But some of the most dangerous and life-threatening injuries are the ones you can’t see. Internal injuries, such as organ damage and internal bleeding, are silent killers. They often have delayed symptoms, and by the time the victim realizes something is wrong, it may be too late.
The sheer force and weight of a large commercial truck mean that even a seemingly low-speed collision can cause devastating damage to the delicate organs within the body. If you have been in any type of truck accident, it is absolutely critical that you seek immediate medical attention, even if you feel fine. Understanding the signs and symptoms of internal injuries could save your life.
How Do Truck Accidents Cause Internal Injuries?
The immense force of a truck crash can cause internal injuries in two primary ways:
1. Blunt Force Trauma
This occurs when your body strikes an object with great force, or an object strikes your body. In a truck accident, this could be your torso hitting the steering wheel, your body being crushed against the door, or being struck by loose cargo within the vehicle. This blunt force can bruise, crush, or tear internal organs.
2. Penetrating Trauma
This happens when an object pierces the skin and enters the body, directly damaging internal organs. This can be caused by shattered pieces of the vehicle or other debris.
Common Types of Internal Injuries and Their Symptoms
It is vital to be aware of the signs of internal injuries, as they can be subtle at first. Never dismiss these symptoms after an accident.
1. Internal Bleeding
This is one of the most dangerous and time-sensitive internal injuries. It can be caused by damage to any major organ or blood vessel. Symptoms can vary depending on the location of the bleed, but common signs include:
- Abdominal pain and swelling: This can indicate bleeding from the spleen, liver, or other abdominal organs. The abdomen may feel rigid or hard to the touch.
- Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting: These are signs of significant blood loss and a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
- Deep purple bruising: Large, dark bruises on the abdomen or back can be a sign of bleeding deep within the body.
- Nausea and vomiting: Especially vomiting blood that looks like coffee grounds.
2. Spleen Damage
The spleen is the most commonly injured organ in blunt force abdominal trauma. It sits just under the rib cage on the left side of the body. A ruptured spleen can cause massive internal bleeding and is a life-threatening emergency. Symptoms include pain in the upper left abdomen, tenderness when you touch the area, and referred pain in the left shoulder (known as Kehr’s sign).
3. Liver Damage
The liver is a large organ on the right side of the abdomen. Like the spleen, it can be easily lacerated or ruptured in a truck accident, leading to severe internal bleeding. Symptoms include pain in the upper right abdomen, tenderness, and signs of shock from blood loss.
4. Kidney Damage
Your kidneys are located on either side of your spine in your lower back. They can be damaged by a direct blow to the back or flank. Signs of kidney trauma include back pain, blood in the urine (hematuria), and bruising on the back.
5. Punctured Lungs and Broken Ribs
The force of an impact can easily fracture ribs. A sharp, broken piece of rib can then puncture a lung, causing it to collapse (a condition called pneumothorax). Symptoms include:
- Sharp chest pain that gets worse with a deep breath or cough.
- Shortness of breath.
- A feeling of tightness in the chest.
6. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
While we often think of a brain injury as a head injury, bleeding can also occur inside the skull (an intracranial hemorrhage). This is an extremely dangerous condition that puts pressure on the brain. Symptoms include a severe headache, confusion, vomiting, seizures, and loss of consciousness.
Why You Need an Attorney for an Internal Injury Claim
Claims involving internal injuries are incredibly complex and high-stakes. The lifetime cost of medical care can be astronomical, and the impact on your quality of life can be profound.
Insurance companies will fight these claims tooth and nail. They may argue that your injury was not caused by the accident or that you waited too long to seek treatment.
An experienced Wisconsin truck accident lawyer knows how to prove the devastating nature of these injuries. We will:
- Work with top medical specialists to ensure your injury is properly diagnosed and documented.
- Hire life care planners to create a comprehensive plan that outlines all of your future medical and personal care needs.
- Fight for compensation that covers your medical bills, lost income, and the immense pain and suffering you have endured.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q: I felt fine after the accident, but now I have abdominal pain. What should I do?
A: Go to the emergency room immediately. Do not wait. Abdominal pain after a trauma is a major red flag for a serious internal injury.
Q: How do doctors diagnose internal injuries?
A: Doctors use a variety of diagnostic tools, including CT scans, MRIs, and ultrasounds, to look for signs of internal bleeding and organ damage. They will also perform a thorough physical examination and monitor your vital signs.
Q: Can I still have a claim if my injury didn’t show up for a few days?
A: Yes. It is very common for the symptoms of internal injuries to be delayed. As long as a medical expert can link your injury to the trauma of the truck accident, you have a valid claim.
Your Life is on the Line—Don’t Wait to Get Help
After a truck accident, there is no such thing as being “too cautious.” Your life could depend on getting immediate medical care. Once your condition is stable, your next call should be to the experienced and compassionate legal team at Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler.
We understand the gravity of internal injuries, and we will fight tirelessly to secure the financial resources you need to rebuild your life.
We invite you to visit our homepage to learn more about our firm. Then, contact us at 608-784-4370 for a free, confidential consultation. Your future is too important to leave to chance.”””