Car crashes can leave behind various injuries, and one of the most common things people can experience is bruising.
Most people get bruises in their every day life and they are usually not a cause for worry. Most of the time, they go unnoticed and don’t bother a person. However, if you have noticed bruising after a car accident you may be wondering if it is something more serious.
What a Normal Bruise Is Like
A bruise occurs when the blood vessels beneath a person’s skin crush and break open. This causes some leakage right below the surface, which often appears dark red or purple. Some bruises can even feel a bit tender to the touch. Others can be completely harmless.
Normal bruising will usually completely fade away in about two weeks, without needing any treatment. However, severe bruising can take months to fade. In some cases, such bruising could be a signsof bigger health issues, like as internal bleeding.
When a Bruise May Be a Sign That Something Is Wrong
People may experience some bruising after even minor car accidents. But how can you tell if your bruises are harmless or may be a sign that something is wrong?
If the bruised area remains swollen, or the bruise doesn’t begin to fade in a few days, these may be signs that you need to speak with your doctor.
In general, it is a good idea to seek medical attention after a car accident, regardless of the severity of the collision. People often don’t feel the full repercussions of the car accident immediately after it occurs, and some injuries, including bruises, may only appear the next day, or even later. A qualified doctor can check to see if your bruising is normal or a sign of something more serious.
Seeking medical attention is essential if you need to file a car injury claim with the at-fault driver or even your own insurance company. If, for instance, the bruising turns out to be more serious, and you require more medical treatment, you may have some problems getting the insurance company to cover the costs. They may argue that your condition getting worse is partially your fault for not seeing a doctor right after the accident, to avoid having to cover your medical costs.
Speak With a St. Louis Car Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been involved in a car crash and are experiencing some bruising, it’s very important to seek medical attention as soon as possible, especially if the areas are swollen and tender. Then, it’s highly recommended that you get in touch with a St. Louis car accident attorney to ensure that your legal rights are protected throughout the car accident claims process.
At The Hoffmann Law Firm, we have over 20 years of experience protecting the rights of those who have been injured in St. Louis car accidents. If you have been injured, you shouldn’t have to settle for less than you deserve. Give us a call today for a free case evaluation.