Woman on a stretcher being assisted by paramedics after a car accident

Car accidents in Huntsville cause painful, debilitating injuries, but some of the most dangerous conditions frequently don’t show external symptoms. Internal bleeding from a car accident might not manifest immediately, but can have potentially fatal consequences if left untreated. Furthermore, treating internal bleeding is often expensive, adding more financial burdens for people already suffering from severe pain and economic stress due to missed work.

The car accident internal bleeding lawyers at Morris, King & Hodge, P.C., understand the serious nature of internal injuries and can help you in your pursuit of fair compensation. Our attorneys are Northern Alabama residents who take pride in serving our hometowns. We can simplify the legal process by investigating the crash, gathering evidence, negotiating with the insurance companies, and preparing your case for trial. You won’t owe any fees unless we recover compensation for you.

Call now or complete our contact form for a free consultation with our Huntsville car accident attorneys.

What Is Internal Bleeding, and Why Is It Serious?

Internal bleeding happens when blood leaks from blood vessels or damaged organs inside the body, often due to severe physical trauma. Unlike cuts or open wounds you can see, internal bleeding often isn’t apparent right away. It can happen in the chest, abdomen, brain, or around organs, and it’s extremely dangerous without immediate medical attention. Even a slow internal bleed can cause serious problems, including organ failure, permanent damage, or death.

Because there may be no visible signs of internal bleeding, people sometimes don’t initially realize how badly they’re hurt. In some cases, a person may collapse without warning. That’s why it’s critical to see a doctor immediately after a car crash, even if you initially feel fine. Prompt diagnosis and treatment could save your life and prevent long-term health issues.

How Can a Car Accident Cause Internal Bleeding?

Car accidents can cause internal bleeding when the force of the crash damages blood vessels inside the body. Even if there are no visible cuts or bruises, the impact alone can be enough to injure organs or break blood vessels. For example, internal bleeding often occurs when the force from a crash throws someone’s body against the steering wheel, dashboard, airbag, or seatbelt during a collision. Sudden stops or rapid movements can also jolt internal organs, causing them to tear or bruise.

In high-speed crashes, the impact force is even more severe, increasing the risk of deep internal injuries. Similarly, broken bones can puncture nearby tissue or organs, leading to internal bleeding as well.

Signs and Symptoms of Internal Bleeding After a Car Accident

Some common signs or symptoms of internal bleeding from a collision include:

  • Abdominal pain or swelling
  • Deep purple or blue bruising
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest pain
  • Weakness or fatigue
  • Vomiting or coughing up blood
  • Blood in urine or stool
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Confusion or difficulty concentrating
  • Cold, clammy skin
  • Rapid heart rate
  • Low blood pressure

See a doctor immediately if you notice any of these symptoms after a crash. Without medical treatment, you might suffer long-term health complications or even die from your injuries.

Why You Need Immediate Medical Treatment for Potential Internal Bleeding

Internal bleeding is a medical emergency that can quickly turn life-threatening if someone does not seek medical attention immediately. Bleeding inside the body can continue without obvious signs, slowly damaging organs and reducing blood flow to vital areas. The longer internal car accident injuries go untreated, the more dangerous they become.

In some cases, a person may seem fine at first, only to crash hours later as blood loss worsens. Prompt medical care can help doctors locate the source of the bleeding, stop it, and prevent serious complications. Delaying treatment increases the risk of permanent injury or death.

Potential long-term complications of internal bleeding from a car accident include:

  • Organ failure
  • Brain damage
  • Chronic pain
  • Ongoing fatigue
  • Permanent disability
  • Increased risk of future medical issues
  • Death

Areas of the Body Most Affected by Internal Bleeding

Some areas of the body that are particularly vulnerable to internal bleeding after auto accidents include:

  • Brain – Bleeding in the brain (intracranial hemorrhages) can cause pressure to build in the skull, which can cause strokes, brain damage, or death.
  • Abdomen – Internal bleeding in the abdomen can affect organs like the liver, spleen, and kidneys. These injuries may cause severe pain and life-threatening blood loss.
  • Chest – Bleeding around the lungs or heart can make it hard to breathe and reduce oxygen flow, potentially leading to cardiac arrest or lung collapse.
  • Pelvis – The pelvis contains major blood vessels, and injuries in this area can result in heavy bleeding that’s difficult to control without surgery.
  • Muscles and soft tissue – Deep bruises in large muscle groups, like the thighs or back, can hold large amounts of blood, causing swelling, numbness, or shock.
  • Gastrointestinal tract – Bleeding in the stomach or intestines may not be immediately visible but can cause life-threatening complications.

Common Causes of Internal Bleeding in Car Accidents

Motor vehicle accidents can cause internal bleeding in multiple ways, such as:

  • Blunt force trauma – A strong blow from hitting the steering wheel, dashboard, or door can rupture blood vessels or damage internal organs without breaking the skin.
  • Seatbelt injuries – While seatbelts save lives, the force from the body pressing into the seatbelt during a crash can cause bruising, chest injuries, or bleeding in the abdomen.
  • Airbag deployment – Airbags inflate rapidly and can strike the chest or face with intense force, sometimes causing internal damage.
  • Broken ribs or bones – Fractures from a crash can pierce internal organs or blood vessels, leading to hidden bleeding.
  • Penetrating trauma – Sharp objects, shattered glass, or parts of the vehicle can puncture the body and cause bleeding deep within.

How Our Car Crash Lawyers Help People Who Had Internal Bleeding

At Morris, King & Hodge, P.C., our car accident lawyers know how serious internal bleeding injuries can be. We have the experience, resources, and resolve to fight for maximum compensation for your losses.

We can gather evidence from the crash scene, review police reports, and work with medical experts to show how the accident caused your injuries. We can also collect your medical records, imaging scans, and treatment details to document the full extent of your condition. If the other driver was speeding, distracted, or otherwise negligent, we can take legal action to hold them accountable. Our team will also handle negotiations with insurance companies, pushing for maximum compensation to cover your medical bills, lost income, and long-term recovery.

Let our attorneys ease your burdens during this challenging time. Call us today or complete our contact form to set up a free consultation with our Huntsville car accident lawyers.