Lesiones pélvicas y abdominales después de un accidente automovilístico

Pelvic and abdominal injuries are a very serious consequence of many car accidents. Although today’s cars and trucks are safer than ever, even a million-dollar car can cause serious bodily injury in the event of a car accident.

Statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration ( NHTSA ) show that approximately 5% of serious injuries sustained in car accidents are abdominal. In Texas, that equates to more than 875 serious abdominal and pelvic injuries each year.

Although traffic deaths have decreased by 50% since the introduction of the three-point seat belt, according to the NHTSA, seat belts and air bags designed to protect us can cause significant risk to the pelvis. and the abdomen. These painful injuries can result in extensive monetary loss due to medical bills and expensive physical therapy.

At the Patterson Law Group law firm in Fort Worth, we will help you during this trying time and ensure that you make a full recovery, both medically and financially.

Here is a breakdown of car accident numbers in Texas in 2018:

Texas Accident Injury Statistics for 2018

Courtesy of the Texas Department of Transportation

What are pelvic and abdominal injuries?

The human pelvic bones, made up of the sacrum, tailbone and hips, form a delicate and vulnerable structure. Additionally, the abdominal area itself contains many vital organs, including the liver, spleen, pancreas, kidneys, bladder, intestines, and stomach cavity.

A car can cause significant injuries to the pelvic and abdominal regions due to the way it is designed. Bumpers, seat belts, steering wheels, and air bags can cause serious bodily injury, and no safety device is foolproof. When a driver is sitting in a car, the pelvis and abdomen are directly at the level of the car’s bumper. This means that in the event of a car accident, the victim will absorb the force of their own defense against their pelvic and abdominal regions.

Additionally, the car’s seat belt is positioned right above these vulnerable regions, so the force of the impact of the crash can translate directly into the pelvis and abdomen, causing bone fractures and internal injuries. Airbags and steering wheels can also pose a great threat when the body collides with these objects at high speeds. The faster the vehicle was traveling before the crash, the more likely a pelvic fracture will occur. Additionally, people who have osteoporosis can suffer a pelvic fracture even in a low-speed collision.

Types of pelvic and abdominal injuries

There are two types of abdominal and pelvic injuries sustained during a car accident: blunt force and penetrating force.

• Blunt force injuries impact the abdomen and pelvic area but do not penetrate the skin. This type of injury can occur if an object such as an airbag, steering wheel, or seat belt hits the body forcefully during a high-impact car accident.
• Penetrating injuries , on the other hand, break the skin, resulting in severe blood loss and damage to internal organs.

Both types of injuries can be life-threatening and may require serious medical attention.

Symptoms of pelvic and abdominal injuries

Pelvic and abdominal injuries are a common concern after a car accident; If you experience any of these symptoms after a car accident, seek medical attention immediately.

• Soft pain
• Bruises
• Loss of blood
• intestinal rupture
• Internal organ bleeding
• Fractured or broken bones

Secondary complications range from the onset of an infection to internal abscesses and obstructed intestines. Another secondary risk is a condition known as Abdominal Compartment Syndrome, a buildup of pressure in the abdomen that can adversely affect the functions of the heart, blood vessels and stomach.

What is seat belt syndrome?

Seat belt syndrome refers to internal organ injuries caused by the seat belt hitting the body during a high-impact crash. Seat belt injuries can occur whether or not the seat belt is being worn correctly, that is, if the shoulder portion of the belt is not positioned in front of the chest. The impact of the belt against the body can cause ruptured organs, internal bleeding, perforated intestines and other serious complications.

Children are at risk for developing seat belt syndrome because the seat belt is less likely to fit their bodies, but essentially EVERYONE is at risk. This means that although seat belts are designed to reduce injuries, this common safety device can pose a real threat to passengers during a high-speed crash.

Where can I receive medical treatment?

There are many hospitals in the Fort Worth, Texas area that can help you if you are suffering from a pelvic or abdominal injury. Here are some local hospitals that can help you get the right treatment and diagnosis:

Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Southwest Fort Worth

6100 Harris Pkwy

Fort Worth, TX 76132

 (817) 433-5000

Medical City Fort Worth

900 8th Ave

Fort Worth, TX 76104

 (817) 877-5292

John Peter Smith Hospital

1500 S Main St

Fort Worth, TX 76104

 (817) 702-3431

Baylor All Saints Hospital

1400 8th Ave
Fort Worth, TX 76104

(817) 926-2544

What will the doctor do?

If you feel any pain or discomfort in your pelvis or abdomen after a car accident, it is imperative that you see a specialist as soon as possible.

The doctor may perform diagnostic tests, x-rays, or even exploratory surgery to assess the extent of the damage. “Hard” pelvic injuries, such as fractured and broken bones, will require x-rays. These tests will help doctors understand the extent of the pelvic or abdominal problem.

After testing and diagnosis, the doctor will recommend physical or emotional therapy, surgery, or other forms of rehabilitation.

What type of compensation will I receive?

Compensation will depend on the extent of the pelvic or abdominal injuries suffered. X-rays and other diagnostic tests can be used as physical evidence to support a claim. Police reports and eyewitness testimonies can also be used to determine how the accident occurred and who was at fault, so that you can receive maximum monetary compensation. Finally, the effect of these injuries on your personal life will also be taken into account. If the injury interferes with your enjoyment of daily life, then you are entitled to fair compensation.

How can I receive fair compensation for abdominal and pelvic injuries?

Call the Patterson Law Group today for a free consultation about your pelvic or abdominal injuries. Our legal experts will fight for you! We have helped hundreds of accident victims obtain the medical care and monetary compensation they are entitled to, so call today for a free consultation .