Pedestrian accidents often involve the pedestrian being struck by a vehicle right in the midsection. The impact of the vehicle can lead to trauma of the organs. When internal organs are subjected to trauma, the victim can bleed internally. Internal bleeding is a medical emergency that can lead to death.

On behalf of Joseph Caprara of CBLAW posted in Pedestrian Accidents on Thursday, January 28, 2016.

Pedestrian accidents often involve the pedestrian being struck by a vehicle right in the midsection. The impact of the vehicle can lead to trauma of the organs. When internal organs are subjected to trauma, the victim can bleed internally. Internal bleeding is a medical emergency that can lead to death.

What types of trauma can lead to internal bleeding?

There are two types of trauma that can lead to internal bleeding — penetrating and blunt force. Penetrating injuries are those in which a foreign object moves through at least one blood vessel. Sharp objects can lead to this type of trauma. Blunt force injuries are those in which an impact to the body causes blood vessels in the body to break. Being hit by a car is an example of a blunt force trauma.

What body parts can be the site of internal bleeding?

Almost any body part can be the site of internal bleeding. The lungs, head, heart and any organ in the abdomen can be the site of internal bleeding. The affected body part is used to identify the internal bleed. For example, a hemothorax is bleeding around the lungs.

What are the symptoms of an internal bleed?

Dizziness, abdominal pain, an area of deep purple skin, fainting and light-headedness are all signs of an internal bleed. Anyone who has been involved in an accident and who has these symptoms should seek emergency medical care.

Treating an internal bleed can involve a host of interventions, including blood transfusions, surgery and imaging tests. Patients who suffer from an internal bleed might have a reduced income and increased bills during the healing period. They might choose to seek compensation from the driver of the car that struck them.

Source: WebMD, “Internal Bleeding Due to Trauma,” accessed Jan. 28, 2016