Signs you may have a skull fracture after a car accident

An impact to the head in a car crash can cause different types of potentially life-threatening head injuries to occur. Skull fractures are among the most critical injuries that can result from a car accident. These fractures occur when the skull is subjected to significant force, and they can lead to a range of complications. 

It’s important to recognize the signs of a skull fracture early, as immediate medical attention is essential for preventing further damage.

What are the signs of a skull fracture?

If you or a loved one has been in an accident and hit your head, the following signs could indicate a potential skull fracture:

• Swelling or depression at the trauma site: Depending on the severity of the injury, swelling or a visible depression at the site of the trauma may occur. This can indicate that the bone has been cracked or collapsed.
• Bruising: Bruising around the injury site, particularly under the eyes (raccoon eyes) or behind the ears (Battle’s sign), can indicate a skull fracture. These types of bruising suggest a serious injury to the skull, often requiring immediate medical attention. If accompanied by other symptoms like swelling, dizziness or confusion, seek medical care promptly.
• Blood or clear fluid leaking: Blood or clear fluid (cerebrospinal fluid) oozing from the ears or nose is a serious sign of a skull fracture. This leakage can indicate damage to the skull or brain, and the presence of cerebrospinal fluid suggests a breach in the protective membranes around the brain.
• Bone fragments or shards: The presence of bone shards or fragments around the site of injury may indicate a serious skull fracture. This could suggest that the bone has broken into pieces, increasing the risk of brain damage, bleeding or infection.

Skull fractures can be indicators of serious injury that may require expensive medical treatment and extensive recovery time. If you or a loved one has suffered a skull fracture in a car accident, it’s important to get legal guidance to understand your options for pursuing a personal injury claim.