Car accidents can have devastating consequences, with one of the most serious injuries being a hematoma. This condition, which involves the pooling of blood outside of vessels, can have life-altering implications if not addressed promptly.

At Poynter and Bucheri, we understand the gravity of hematomas after car accidents and are committed to providing you with the necessary information and legal support to navigate this challenging time.

Understanding Hematomas

A hematoma is a localized collection of blood that accumulates outside the blood vessels, usually due to a head injury sustained in a car accident or motor vehicle crash.

Unlike a simple bruise, a hematoma can be a very dangerous head injury that may require immediate medical attention. These collections of blood can occur in various parts of the body, including the brain (subdural hematoma), under the skin, in muscles, or around organs.

Types of Hematomas

• Subdural hematoma: This type of hematoma occurs in the subdural space, between the brain and its outer covering (dura mater), often resulting from head trauma sustained during a car accident or blow to the head. Subdural hematomas can cause potentially fatal brain injury if not treated promptly.
  • Chronic subdural hematomas can occur in elderly patients, those with brain atrophy, or patients prescribed anticoagulant drugs.
• Epidural hematoma: An epidural hematoma forms between the skull and the dura mater, frequently associated with a skull fracture head injury that puts pressure on the brain tissue and soft tissues.
• Intracerebral hematoma: This hematoma occurs within the brain tissue itself, often caused by a burst blood vessel.
• Subcutaneous hematoma: Subcutaneous hematomas are found under the skin, commonly seen as a lump or swelling in the soft tissue.

Causes of Hematomas in Car Accidents

Car accidents can cause head injury and hematomas in several ways due to the intense force and impact involved.

Some common causes include:

• Blunt force trauma: The forceful impact from hitting the steering wheel, dashboard, or windows can cause blood vessels to burst, leading to the formation of a hematoma.
• Seat belt impact: While seat belts save lives, they can also cause bruising and hematomas, particularly in the abdominal area.
• Airbag deployment: The rapid inflation of airbags can result in blunt force injuries, leading to hematomas in the face, chest, and abdomen.
• Broken bones: Fractures sustained during a car accident can cause internal bleeding and subsequent hematoma formation as blood pools in the damaged area.

Symptoms of Hematomas After a Car Accident

Identifying a hematoma head injury promptly is vital for effective treatment.

Common symptoms to watch out for include:

• Swelling and pain: A visible lump accompanied by pain at the site of the head injury.
• Bruising: Discoloration of the skin around the affected area.
• Head injury symptoms: For a subdural or epidural hematoma, symptoms may include persistent headache, dizziness, confusion, pupils that become dilated, and changes in consciousness, coma, seizures, loss of consciousness, or other serious complications.
• Neurological deficits: In cases of brain injury, symptoms can involve neurological deficits like weakness or numbness in limbs.

Recognizing these brain injury symptoms early and choosing to seek medical attention and medical treatment for head injuries or brain injury can prevent complications and promote better outcomes.

Dealing with a hematoma, whether it’s a subdural hematoma, epidural hematoma, chronic subdural hematoma, or any other type, can be overwhelming and disrupt your life in significant ways. From the initial blow to the head to when the blood vessel bursts and forms the pooled blood, to the following diagnostic tests and medical care required, the physical, emotional, and financial toll can be substantial.

Diagnosing Hematomas

Accurate diagnosis is crucial for managing hematomas effectively.

Medical professionals use several forms of diagnostic testing, including:

• Physical examination: An initial assessment to check for visible signs and symptoms, even those that may develop slowly, of a hematoma.
• Imaging tests: CT scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and other diagnostic tests are essential for diagnosing internal hematomas, particularly in the brain. These tests provide detailed images to identify the location and extent of bleeding or intracranial bleeding.
• Neurological examination: A comprehensive neurological examination may be performed to assess neurological deficits and risk factors for brain injury.

Properly diagnosing a hematoma ensures that the appropriate treatment plan is implemented, minimizing the risk of further complications.

Treating Hematomas After a Car Accident

Treatment for hematomas varies based on their type and severity.

Common treatment options include:

• Non-surgical treatments: For less severe hematomas, rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) can help reduce swelling and pain. Pain relievers may also be prescribed to control blood flow and manage symptoms.
• Surgical intervention: Severe cases, such as subdural hematomas, may require surgery. Procedures like drainage, craniotomy (involves drilling into the skull), or other methods to relieve intracranial pressure are performed to remove the pooled blood.
• Rehabilitation: Post-treatment, physical therapy, and rehabilitation might be necessary to regain strength and function, particularly in cases involving brain injury or cognitive impairment.

Addressing hematomas promptly through appropriate medical care is crucial for recovery and preventing long-term damage or even death.

Potential Complications If Hematomas Are Left Untreated

Untreated hematomas can lead to severe complications, including:

• Chronic hematomas: Persistent hematomas, such as when a chronic subdural hematoma occurs, may develop slowly, requiring only treatment and monitoring.
• Permanent brain damage: In cases involving the brain and traumatic brain injury, untreated hematomas can cause permanent brain damage and loss of cognitive function.
• Infection: Hematomas near the skin surface can become infected, leading to abscess formation and other complications affecting the body’s ability to heal.
• Increased intracranial pressure: In brain hematomas, the skull puts pressure on the brain tissue can lead to a fatal brain injury if not treated promptly.

Understanding these risks highlights the importance of seeking prompt medical attention and medical treatment for hematomas, head trauma, or brain injury after a car accident or motor vehicle accident, especially in elderly patients who may be at higher risk.

If you or a loved one has suffered a hematoma after a car accident or motor vehicle accident, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a free consultation. Your well-being, your rights, and your ability to live a fulfilling life after this traumatic event are our top priorities. Together, we can work to secure the resources you need to heal and move forward.

Prevention Tips for Hematomas in Car Accidents

While it is impossible to prevent all injuries, certain precautions can minimize the risk of hematomas in motor vehicle accidents:

• Safe driving practices: Always follow traffic laws, avoid distractions, and drive defensively.
• Use of seat belts and airbags: Ensure the seat belt is worn correctly, and airbags are functional.
• Proper car positioning: Adjust seats and headrests to reduce the impact of a collision on the body.

Implementing these safety measures can help reduce the severity of injuries in the event of a car crash.

Legal Rights and Financial Implications of Hematomas After a Car Accident

Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can be challenging, but understanding your legal rights is crucial:

• Seeking compensation: Victims may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses related to their injuries from an insurance company or the at-fault party.
• Working with personal injury lawyers: An experienced attorney from Poynter and Bucheri can guide you through the legal process, ensuring you receive fair compensation and protecting your rights.
• Insurance claims: Navigating claims with the insurance company can be complex; having legal assistance ensures your rights are protected and claims are handled efficiently.

At Poynter and Bucheri, we are dedicated to fighting for your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve, especially in cases involving hematomas or traumatic brain injuries. Call us today at 1-800-265-9881.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I suspect a hematoma after a car accident?

Seek immediate medical attention from a medical doctor to diagnose and treat the injury promptly.

Is loss of consciousness a symptom of a hematoma?

Loss of consciousness can be a concerning symptom of certain types of hematomas, particularly those involving the brain, such as subdural hematomas and epidural hematomas. If a person experiences a loss of consciousness after a head injury, it is imperative to seek immediate medical attention, as it could indicate a potentially life-threatening condition.

Can a blow to the head cause a hematoma or cause blood vessels to rupture?

Yes, a blow to the head is one of the common causes of hematomas, especially in the case of car accidents or other traumatic incidents. The force of the impact can cause blood vessels to rupture, leading to the accumulation of blood outside the vessels and the formation of a hematoma.

What is the dura mater, and how does it relate to hematomas?

The dura mater is the outermost membrane covering the brain and spinal cord. Certain types of hematomas, such as subdural hematomas and epidural hematomas, can occur between the dura mater and the brain or skull, respectively.

What is an epidural hematoma, and how is it different from a subdural hematoma?

An epidural hematoma is a collection of blood that forms between the skull and the dura mater, often associated with a skull fracture. On the other hand, a subdural hematoma occurs between the brain and the dura mater, typically resulting from head trauma. Both types of hematomas can be serious and require prompt medical intervention.

How long does it take for a hematoma to heal?

Healing time varies; minor hematomas may resolve in several weeks, while severe cases may require months of medical care.

Can a hematoma cause long-term damage?

Yes, especially if left untreated, it can lead to chronic conditions, permanent brain damage, and impairment of a person’s ability to function.

Can hematomas become chronic conditions?

Yes, in some cases, hematomas can develop into chronic conditions if left untreated. For example, chronic subdural hematomas can occur when blood continues to accumulate over time, leading to persistent symptoms and potential complications if not properly addressed.

How does a subdural hematoma differ from a traumatic brain injury (TBI)?

A subdural hematoma is a specific type of injury that can occur as a result of a traumatic brain injury (TBI). While all subdural hematomas are considered a form of traumatic brain injury, not all TBIs involve a subdural hematoma. TBIs can include a range of injuries to the brain, such as contusions, diffuse axonal injury, and other types of bleeding or damage.

What is the treatment for chronic subdural hematomas?

The treatment for a chronic subdural hematoma often involves surgical intervention to drain the accumulated blood. In some cases, a craniotomy (drilling into the skull) may be necessary to access and remove the hematoma. The specific treatment plan for chronic subdural hematomas will depend on the individual case and the severity of the condition or traumatic brain injury.

What are the legal steps to take after being diagnosed with a hematoma from a car accident?

Contact an experienced personal injury attorney for a free consultation to explore your options for compensation.

Contact Poynter & Bucheri Law Firm for Your Head Injury

If you or a loved one has experienced a hematoma after a car accident, seeking prompt medical attention and legal advice is crucial. Contact Poynter and Bucheri for a free consultation. Our experienced attorneys are here to help you get the compensation you deserve, allowing you to focus on your recovery and protecting your rights and the well-being of your person’s life.

Hematomas after car accidents are serious injuries that require prompt medical attention and proper treatment. Understanding the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options can help manage these injuries effectively and prevent potentially fatal brain injury. At Poynter and Bucheri, we are committed to providing the support and legal assistance you need to navigate this challenging time.

However, you don’t have to face this situation alone. Our experienced attorneys are here to help you through every step of the process. We will fight tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your medical bills, lost wages, and any other damages resulting from your injury. Our goal is to allow you to focus on your recovery while we handle the legal complexities.

Remember, hematomas are very dangerous head injuries that require medical attention. By seeking prompt diagnosis and treatment, and partnering with an experienced law firm like ours, you can maximize your chances of a successful recovery and protect your future.

Contact us today, and let us be your advocates during this challenging time. You can reach our offices by phone at 1-800-265-9881 or by filling out our online form.