When you are involved in a car accident in Broward County or anywhere in the Miami Metropolitan area, you may be surprised to find that you feel okay. Even after being assessed at the scene for injuries, you may not have any visible effects of the collision other than a few bruises or scrapes. However, as time progresses, you may feel worse. Unfortunately, this could be due to internal organ damage. If you are unsure what this means or how it can impact you, you’ll want to keep reading. The following blog explores what you should know about these matters and the signs and symptoms you should be on the lookout for following an accident. You’ll also discover the importance of connecting with a Broward County auto accident lawyer.

What Is Internal Organ Damage?

Internal organ damage describes any injury sustained by the organs inside your body. Unfortunately, because these injuries are not visible, they often go unnoticed. Failure to treat internal organ damage quickly can result in a complete failure of the organ or infections. These can be life-threatening. Not only can internal organ damage cause pain, but it can also disrupt your body’s natural functions, which can lead to additional issues.

Common Types of Internal Organ Damage After a Florida Car Accident

  • Traumatic Brain Injury
    • Occurs when the brain collides with the skull as a result of sudden impact
    • Includes concussions, hematomas, lacerations, and contusions
  • Abdominal Organ Injuries
    • Damaged to the kidneys, liver, intestines, and spleen
    • Can result in internal bleeding or even ruptures
  • Spinal Cord Injuries
    • Can result in a compressed or severed spine
    • May cause limited mobility, paralysis, loss of feeling, and neurological problems

How Internal Injuries Happen in Car Accidents in Broward County

  • Blunt Force Trauma
    • Occurs when an occupant strikes an object like the steering wheel, center console, or dashboard
    • Causes damage without breaking skin
  • Deceleration (Shearing) Trauma
    • Internal organs continue moving after the body comes to a stop
    • Can result in tearing and internal damage
  • Seatbelt-Related Pressure Injuries

What Are the Symptoms?

Internal organ damage following a car accident can be difficult to detect, but several key symptoms can indicate a serious injury. Understanding the signs and symptoms of internal organ damage is critical to ensuring you can get the care you need in a timely manner. It’s critical to understand that the signs of damage will depend on where the injury has occurred.

Quick Signs

  • Persistent abdominal pain, swelling, or tenderness
  • Nausea or vomiting following an accident
  • Blood in urine, stool, or vomit
  • Unexplained fatigue and weakness
  • Dizziness or loss of balance
  • Rapid heartbeat or low blood pressure

Symptoms By Injury Type

  • Abdominal or Pelvic Injuries
    •  Pain
    • Tenderness
    • Bruising
    • Swelling
    • Nausea
    • Vomiting
    • Blood in your bowel movements, urine, or vomit
    • Increased heart rate
    • Low blood pressure
  • Traumatic Brain Injuries
    • Dizziness
    • Headaches
    • nausea and vomiting
    • Headaches
    • Confusion
    • Light sensitivity
    • Irritability
  • Spinal Cord Injuries
    • Pressure or pain in the back or neck
    • Numbness or tingling in limbs
    • Weakness or loss of coordination
    • Difficulty breathing
  • Additional Signs of Internal Bleeding

When Should You Seek Medical Attention Following a Broward County Accident?

Even if you feel fine in the immediate aftermath of an accident, symptoms of internal organ damage can take hours or even days to appear. Seeking prompt medical evaluation can prevent complications and can assist in the documentation of your injuries, which can ultimately support your claim for compensation.

Immediate Action Checklist

  • Seek immediate medical attention for severe pain or bleeding
  • Visit a medical provider within 24 hours of a moderate or severe collision
  • Continue to monitor symptoms in the days following a collision
  • Adhere to all medical advice and attend follow-up appointments
  • Keep all medical records

Can You Seek Compensation for Internal Injuries in Florida?

Internal organ damage can take a serious toll on your life, causing astronomical medical bills, time off work, and emotional damage as a result of the pain you’ve endured. If you were injured due to the negligent actions of another party, you may be eligible to recover compensation.

What Compensation Can Cover

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Long-term disability

Contact an Experienced Broward County Injury Attorney

As such, it is imperative to connect with an experienced attorney as soon as possible to discuss your legal options to hold the negligent party responsible for the injuries you’ve endured. At the Finizio Law Group, our team understands how difficult these matters can be, which is why it is in your best interest to contact us. We can help you navigate these matters to get the justice you deserve.