Bruising From Car Accidents (Hematoma/subdural hematoma)

Bruising from car accidents can occur due to several reasons, including:

• Airbag deployment: Airbags are designed to save lives. However, the force of deployment can cause airbag bruises and contusions. 
• Seat belt use: Seat belts are crucial for preventing more severe injuries. However, the force exerted by a seat belt can lead to abdominal bruising after a car accident.
• Steering wheel impact: Contact with the steering wheel during a frontal collision can lead to bruising on the face, head, or chest.

Types of bruising from car accidents: Contusions and Hematomas

Contusions are the most common type of bruise. They occur when tiny blood vessels (capillaries) beneath the skin break, leading to visible discoloration. Contusions can be mild or severe, and the severity of the injury is often reflected in the size and color of the bruise.

Hematomas, on the other hand, are a more severe form of bruising. They result from the collection of blood outside of blood vessels and can be classified into two primary types:

• Subcutaneous hematoma: These hematomas occur beneath the skin, usually appearing as raised, painful, and swollen areas. They can occur after car accidents and may be associated with seat belt injuries.
• Subdural hematoma: These are more critical and occur when blood collects between the brain and the dura mater (a protective layer around the brain). Subdural hematomas can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.

The appearance of bruises after a car accident can vary based on the severity of the impact, the individual's susceptibility, and the depth of the bruise. While some bruises may become noticeable within hours, others may take several days to fully develop. Delayed onset of bruising is common in subdural hematomas and other injuries, which may not present immediate symptoms.

Common locations of bruising after a car accident

Bruising from car accidents can occur in various parts of the body. Common locations for bruising include:

• Chest: Bruising on the chest can result from the impact of seat belts and airbags.
• Legs: Leg bruising after a car accident may occur if the legs make contact with the dashboard, door, or other car components.
• Abdomen: A bruised abdomen from a car accident is often associated with the use of seat belts and the force exerted during a crash.

Seat belts can cause subcutaneous hematomas due to the force applied to the body during a collision. These hematomas may appear as swollen, tender areas, and they should not be overlooked. They’re often indicative of underlying injuries.

Symptoms of subdural hematoma

Subdural hematomas are a serious medical condition and can occur as a result of head injuries sustained in car accidents. Symptoms of subdural hematomas may include:

• Headaches
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Changes in behavior
• Seizures
• Loss of consciousness

It’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention if any of these symptoms are present after a crash. An untreated subdural hematoma can lead to severe complications, including brain damage.

The appropriate auto injury treatment for crash-related bruises depends on their type and severity. For minor contusions and subcutaneous hematomas, treatment may involve rest, pain relief medication, and cold compresses. However, subdural hematomas and severe contusions may require surgical procedures to relieve pressure or stop bleeding.

Can a minor car accident cause injury such as bruising?

While the severity of injuries may be less in minor car accidents, they can still lead to bruises and other injuries. Whether you have a seemingly minor injury or feel perfectly fine, it’s important to get immediate medical attention after a car accident.

Crash-related injuries can appear several days after a crash. If left untreated, even a minor injury can worsen and lead to future complications.

If you have sustained injuries and bruises in a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation through a personal injury claim. An auto injury lawyer can guide you through the legal procedures, help you gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies for a maximum settlement. If necessary, an attorney can fight for a financial verdict in court.

The personal injury settlement process can vary in terms of timelines, depending on the complexity of the case and the willingness of the parties involved to negotiate. For example, it can take your attorney up to six weeks (or longer) to investigate your car accident. It can also take several weeks or months to write a demand letter and negotiate with insurance companies for a fair settlement.

If a settlement can’t be reached, the process may go into mediation or to trial. This can prolong the process for up to a year or longer.

During the settlement process, it’s important to refrain from speaking to the at-fault driver’s insurance company. They may take your words out of context and construe what you say as admitting fault. They may also offer a lowball settlement offer to quickly close out your case. If you accept it, you won’t be able to pursue additional compensation.

Let an experienced attorney advocate for you and negotiate for maximum compensation.

How to get a Premier Attorney on your side

Law.com Premier Attorneys know how to help injured motorists get compensated for bruising from car accidents. Can’t afford an attorney? No problem! Premier Attorneys offer their services at no upfront costs and only get paid if they win your case.

If you have any questions, contact a lawyer in your area and set up a free legal consultation. One of our verified attorneys will help you explore your legal options and next steps.