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    The patient has a bruise on their arm as the doctor examines it.

    Hematomas are more than just painful bruises—they can lead to serious health complications that upend your life, leaving you with mounting medical bills, lost income, and a lot of uncertainty about what comes next. If you or someone you love suffered a hematoma because of an accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation.

    At Joye Law Firm, we understand how devastating these injuries can be, and we’re here to help. Since 1968, we’ve been fighting for the rights of injured South Carolinians, and helping our clients get the compensation they deserve. If your hematoma injuries was caused by a car crash, slip-and-fall incident, or any other type of accident, let us guide you through your legal options and fight for the justice you deserve.

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    What Is a Hematoma?

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    A hematoma happens when blood pools outside of a blood vessel, usually due to the force of impact. It’s different from a simple bruise because it involves larger blood vessels and can cause more severe pain and complications. Hematomas can form almost anywhere in the body, including under the skin, in muscles, or near vital organs.

    They vary in size and severity, ranging from small bumps to large, painful masses. In some cases, they might require medical treatment or even surgery to prevent further health issues. They often result from vehicle accidents, animal attacks, falls, or other traumatic events. The impact causes blood vessels to burst, leading to swelling and discoloration.

    Joye Law Firm has experience with the range of these particular injuries. In a recent case, Attorney Sydney Lynn fought for her client who got into a motorcycle accident when a careless driver failed to yield. After being diagnosed with multiple injuries, including a subdural hematoma (brain hemorrhage), she secured a $1.35 million settlement for her injured client.

    Hematoma vs. Bruise

     

    It’s easy to confuse a hematoma with a regular bruise, but they’re not the same. While both involve bleeding under the skin, a hematoma is far more serious and can have more severe consequences.

    A bruise, also known as a contusion, occurs when small blood vessels (capillaries) are damaged due to a bump or impact. Blood leaks under the skin, causing a visible blue, black, or purple mark. Bruises are generally mild, heal on their own, and usually don’t require medical attention.

    A hematoma, on the other hand, is a more severe injury that involves damage to larger blood vessels. The blood pools outside the vessels, creating a noticeable lump or mass under the skin or deeper within the body. Hematomas can form in muscles, organs, or even near the brain, leading to significant pain and potential complications if not treated properly.

    The key differences between a bruise and a hematoma include:

    • Severity: While bruises are often harmless and heal without treatment, hematomas can be painful and may require medical intervention, such as draining or surgery, especially if they’re near critical areas like the brain or organs.
    • Appearance: Bruises are generally flat and change colors as they heal. Hematomas may appear as a raised, firm bump and may not change colors in the same way.
    • Pain Level: Bruises are usually tender but manageable. Hematomas can be much more painful, especially when they press against nerves or internal structures.
    • Healing Time: Bruises typically heal within a couple of weeks. Hematomas can take much longer and sometimes require medical treatment including surgery to resolve fully.

    If you suspect you have a hematoma, it’s important to seek medical attention right away to avoid complications. If someone else’s negligence caused the injury, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, pain, and other losses. At Joye Law Firm, we’re here to help you understand your options and fight for the support you need.

    Types of Hematomas

     

    Hematomas come in different forms, each with unique challenges:

    • Subdural Hematoma: This type occurs between the brain and and the “dura,” the outermost layer of tissue. It’s often caused by head injuries and can be life-threatening if not treated quickly. Symptoms might include severe headaches, dizziness, confusion, and even loss of consciousness.
    • Epidural Hematoma: This hematoma forms between the skull and the outer layer of the brain. Commonly caused by head trauma, it can put dangerous pressure on the brain, leading to severe symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and altered mental status.
    • Subcutaneous Hematoma: These are found under the skin in the fatty tissue. They often resembling large bruises, but can be painful and may restrict movement, depending on their location.
    • Intramuscular Hematoma: This type occurs within the muscles, causing swelling and pain. It often results from blunt force trauma, such as car accidents or falls.
    • Intra-abdominal Hematoma: Found within the abdomen, these can affect organs and cause significant pain and internal damage. They often require close monitoring and sometimes surgery.

    Each type of hematoma carries its own risks and challenges, which is why getting proper medical attention is crucial.

    Symptoms of Hematoma Injuries

    Symptoms vary depending on location and severity but often include:

     

    • Swelling and visible bruising
    • Pain or tenderness at the injury site
    • Limited movement or stiffness in the affected area
    • A lump or mass under the skin
    • Nausea or dizziness (especially with head injuries)
    • Vision changes or loss of consciousness

    If you experience any of these symptoms after an accident, don’t wait. See a doctor immediately. Even if a hematoma seems minor, it can worsen over time without treatment.

    Complications of Untreated Hematomas

    While some hematomas may heal on their own, others can lead to severe complications, especially if left untreated. Potential complications include:

    • Infection: If bacteria enters the hematoma it can cause infection, leading to additional health risks.
    • Blood Clots: Blood pooling can result in clots, which can be dangerous if they travel to other parts of the body.
    • Nerve Damage: Hematomas near nerves can compress them, causing pain, numbness, or permanent nerve damage.
    • Organ Damage: Intra-abdominal hematomas can affect the function of internal organs, requiring urgent medical intervention.
    • Increased Pressure on the Brain: Head-related hematomas can increase pressure on the brain, leading to life-threatening conditions.

    Recognizing the seriousness of these injuries and seeking medical treatment promptly can prevent these complications and improve your chances of recovery.

    If someone else’s negligence caused your hematoma—whether it was a careless driver, a hazardous workplace, or a poorly maintained property—you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries. Understanding your legal rights is the first step toward getting the justice and compensation you deserve.

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    Types of Compensation Available

    You may be entitled to various types of compensation, also known as damages, including:

    • Medical Expenses: This includes all medical costs associated with your injury, from initial emergency care to ongoing treatments, surgeries, physical therapy, and any necessary medications. Hematomas can sometimes lead to complications that require extended medical care, and you shouldn’t have to pay for it out of pocket.
    • Lost Wages and Future Earnings: Hematomas can be painful and debilitating, often forcing victims to take time off work. If your injury has caused you to miss work or affected your ability to earn in the future, you can seek compensation for lost wages and reduced earning capacity.
    • Pain and Suffering: Beyond the physical pain, this ordeal can also lead to emotional distress and a diminished quality of life. Compensation for pain and suffering aims to address these non-economic damages, recognizing the broader impact your injury has on your day-to-day life.
    • Disability and Disfigurement: In severe cases, you may be facing long-term disability, scarring, or disfigurement. These impacts can significantly alter your life, entitling you to compensation that properly reflects these permanent changes.
    • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If you can no longer enjoy activities you once loved, you might be eligible for damages that compensate for this loss. This type of compensation recognizes the broader implications of your injury on your overall happiness and lifestyle.

    Grounds for Compensation

    In South Carolina, you may have a legal claim if your hematoma injury resulted from:

    • Vehicle Accidents: Whether it’s a high-speed collision or a minor fender-bender, car accidents are one of the most common causes of hematomas. If another driver’s reckless behavior caused the accident—such as speeding, distracted driving, or driving under the influence—you have the right to hold them accountable for your injuries.
    • Slip and Fall Accidents: Property owners have a duty to keep their premises safe. If you suffered a hematoma from a slip, trip, or fall due to hazards like wet floors, uneven surfaces, or inadequate lighting, you may be entitled to compensation through a premises liability claim. Likewise, careless pet owners can be held accountable if their animal causes your injury.
    • Workplace Injuries: Employers are responsible for maintaining a safe work environment. If you sustained a hematoma due to a workplace accident—like a fall, equipment malfunction, or being struck by an object—you could be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. In some cases, you might also have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit if a third party’s negligence was involved.
    • Assaults or Physical Altercations: If your hematoma resulted from an assault or physical altercation, you could pursue a personal injury claim against the responsible party. A business may also bare responsibility if their security personnel oversteps their authority and physically injures a guest.

    Proving Liability in Hematoma Injury Cases

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    To recover compensation for your hematoma injury, you must prove that another party was at fault. This generally involves demonstrating the following elements:

    1. Duty of Care: You must show that the responsible party owed you a duty of care. For instance, drivers must follow traffic laws to keep others safe, and property owners must maintain safe conditions on their premises.
    2. Breach of Duty: Next, you must prove that the at-fault party breached their duty of care through negligent or reckless behavior. Examples include running a red light, failing to clean up a spill, or ignoring safety protocols at work.
    3. Causation: It must be clear that the breach of duty directly caused your hematoma. For example, if you suffered a hematoma after slipping on a wet floor with no warning signs, the property owner’s negligence likely caused your injury.
    4. Damages: Finally, you must show that your hematoma led to specific damages, such as medical bills, lost income, or pain and suffering.

    Gathering evidence is crucial in proving your case. Medical records, accident reports, witness statements, photos, videos, and expert testimony can all play a significant role in demonstrating fault and the extent of your damages.

    How Joye Law Firm Can Help

    Ken Harrell and Columbia SC Attorneys discussing a case

    Dealing with a personal injury claim after a hematoma injury can feel overwhelming. You don’t have to do it alone. Our attorneys at Joye Law Firm are committed to making a difference in the lives of our clients. We handle all the legal details so you can focus on healing.

    Here’s how we can help:

    • Thorough Investigation: We’ll gather evidence, talk to witnesses, and work with medical experts to build a strong case.
    • Identify Liable Parties: We’ll identify all parties that may be liable, whether a negligent driver, property owner, or another party.
    • Negotiation with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. We’ll fight to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve.
    • Legal Representation in Court: If necessary, we’ll take your case to court and present your story to a judge or jury.
    • Compassionate Guidance: We know this is a difficult time. Our team is here to listen, offer support, and guide you every step of the way.

    If you’ve suffered from South Carolina hematoma injuries due to someone else’s negligence, you have the right to seek compensation. At Joye Law Firm, we’re committed to helping you through this challenging time with compassion and determination.

    Don’t Wait to Seek Legal Help from Joye Law Firm

    Hematoma injuries can have long-term effects on your health and quality of life. The sooner you take action, the better. At Joye Law Firm, we understand the complex laws and legal processes associated with personal injury claims. Let us handle the hard work so you can focus on what matters most—your recovery.

    Worried about the cost of hiring a personal injury lawyer? Don’t be. At Joye Law Firm, every client gets our No Fee Guarantee – meaning you won’t pay anything unless we win your case. Our attorney fees are simply a percentage of your settlement, and we always make sure our clients take home more than we do.

    If you or someone dear to you one has suffered from hematoma injuries in Charleston, Myrtle Beach, Columbia, Clinton, Summerville, or elsewhere in South Carolina, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact Joye Law Firm today at (888) 324-3100 or through our online form for a free case review. We’re ready to listen, help you understand your rights, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Call us now to take the first step toward your recovery.

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