A crash injury occurs when your body is hit with great force for an extended period of time. This most commonly occurs with torsos and limbs, though it can impact any part of the body. Unfortunately, crush injuries can lead to extremely serious consequences.
When the body is crushed, it can result in a lot of different types of injuries that all fall under the category of crush injuries. Such crush injuries include:
- Respiratory distress
- Muscle damage
- Soft tissue damage
- Nerve damage
- Broken or fractured bones
- Organ damage
- Amputation
- Asphyxiation
- Hemorrhaging
- Psychological issues (e.g., PTSD)
Crush injuries can occur in any industry, but are most common in the construction, agriculatural and industrial industries. This is because these accidents often involve heavy machinery and occur due building code violations, lack of industrial safety regulations, lack of safety training, and lack of programs.
What is Crush Syndrome?
Another serious thing to know about crush injuries is that they can lead to something called Crush Syndrome. Crush Syndrome is the result of muscle deterioration and the release of toxins such as lactic acid and nitric oxide. It can occur when the body has been crushed for a lengthy period of time and can result in:
- Blood clots
- Brain issues
- Irregular heartbeat
- Increased acidity in the bloodstream (Metabolic Acidosis)
Symptoms of Crush Syndrome
Since Crush Syndrome can lead to catastrophic injuries or fatalities, it’s imperative to know the signs of it and to seek immediate medical attention.
Symptoms of Crush Syndrome include:
- Weak or absent pulse;
- Rapid swelling;
- Severe pain; and
- Bruised or discolored skin.
Whether or not you believe you could have Crush Syndrome, you should always seek immediate medical attention any time you have experienced a crush accident. This is especially important because injuries are often internal and cannot be seen. You may believe that you are okay, maybe just sore, but you could be suffering from internal damage such as organ damage or failure, muscle toxins, or bleeding.
Surovell Isaacs & Levy PLC Can Help Those in VA Who Have Suffered a Crush Injury
When you have suffered a crush injury it can have life-altering consequences. As a result of your injury, you may experience significant medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. However, you should never have to pay the price for someone else’s mistakes. If your injuries were the result of someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. That’s why it’s important to speak with a knowledgeable and experienced Virginia personal injury attorney.
At Surovell Isaacs & Levy PLC, we have experience with personal injury and crush injuries. We will help you to fight for what it is that you deserve. To learn more or to schedule a consultation, contact us today!
Posted in: Personal Injury