Types of Accidents That Cause Blunt Force Trauma

Accidents happen when we least expect them, and the aftermath can be devastating—especially when they result in serious injuries like blunt force trauma. Whether it’s a car crash, a fall, or a workplace accident, these injuries can have long-term physical, emotional, and financial consequences. 

Understanding how these injuries occur and the legal options available under New Jersey law can help victims seek the compensation they deserve.

What is Blunt Force Trauma?

Blunt force trauma occurs when a strong impact is applied to the body without breaking the skin. Unlike penetrating injuries that involve an object piercing the body, blunt force trauma damages internal organs, tissues, and bones due to the force of impact. It can occur due to sudden falls, collisions, or being struck by objects.

Common causes of blunt force trauma include:

• Collisions with hard surfaces
• Sudden deceleration (such as in car accidents)
• Being struck by an object or another person

The severity of the injury depends on factors like the intensity of the impact, the affected body part, and the victim’s overall health. In minor cases, the damage may be limited to superficial bruising. However, in severe cases, blunt force trauma can result in life-threatening injuries such as internal bleeding, organ rupture, and traumatic brain injuries.

Symptoms of Blunt Force Trauma

Blunt force trauma symptoms may not always be immediately noticeable. That’s why it’s crucial to seek medical attention after an accident, even if you feel fine at first. Some common symptoms include:

• Swelling and bruising
• Severe pain and tenderness
• Loss of consciousness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Difficulty breathing
• Confusion or dizziness
• Internal bleeding (which may not be visible)
• Headaches or sensitivity to light

Ignoring symptoms can lead to complications, so always get checked by a healthcare professional after an accident. In some cases, what seems like minor bruising may indicate internal bleeding or fractures. Delayed treatment can make injuries worse, leading to long-term complications or even life-threatening conditions.

Types of Accidents That May Cause Blunt Force Trauma

Blunt force trauma can result from various types of accidents, many of which involve negligence. Here are some of the most common causes:

Motor Vehicle Accidents

Car crashes are one of the leading causes of blunt-force trauma. When vehicles collide, drivers and passengers may be thrown forward, striking the dashboard, steering wheel, or windshield. Even with airbags and seatbelts, blunt force injuries can still occur, including:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Fractured ribs or broken bones
• Internal bleeding

New Jersey’s No-Fault Insurance System: New Jersey follows a no-fault insurance system, meaning victims must first file a claim with their Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance, regardless of who was at fault. However, if injuries are severe (such as those involving permanent disfigurement or disability), victims may have the right to file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver.

In cases involving reckless or impaired driving, victims may also be eligible for additional damages under New Jersey’s negligence laws. If a driver was speeding, driving under the influence, or distracted at the time of the accident, this could strengthen a claim against them.

Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrians are particularly vulnerable to blunt force trauma injuries when struck by vehicles. The impact of the collision can throw them onto the hood of the car, into the windshield, or onto the pavement, causing:

• Skull fractures
• Spinal cord injuries
• Internal organ damage

New Jersey law (N.J.S.A. 39:4-36) requires drivers to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. If a driver fails to do so and causes an injury, the victim may pursue compensation beyond their PIP insurance. Pedestrian accidents often involve serious injuries, as the human body is no match for the weight and force of a moving vehicle.

Bicycle and Motorcycle Accidents

Cyclists and motorcyclists lack the protective metal frame of a car, making them susceptible to severe injuries when involved in crashes. Helmets can reduce the risk of fatal head trauma, but they don’t prevent all blunt force injuries, including:

• Broken collarbones or ribs
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Road rash with deep tissue damage

Under New Jersey law, injured motorcyclists can sue the at-fault party directly since PIP coverage does not apply to motorcycles. When building a claim, it is also important to consider factors such as hazardous road conditions, driver negligence, and defective motorcycle parts.

Slip and Fall Accidents

Falls are another leading cause of blunt force trauma, particularly among older adults. Slipping on wet floors, tripping over uneven surfaces, or falling down stairs can lead to:

• Hip fractures
• Concussions
• Internal bleeding

New Jersey Premises Liability Law: Property owners have a legal duty to maintain safe conditions for visitors. If negligence—such as failing to remove hazards or provide warnings—causes an injury, the victim may be entitled to compensation under New Jersey’s premises liability laws (N.J.S.A. 2A:42A-3).

Proving liability is crucial in slip-and-fall cases. Property owners or businesses may attempt to argue that the victim was at fault or that the hazard was not present long enough to be addressed. Gathering evidence such as surveillance footage, witness statements, and maintenance records can strengthen a claim.

Workplace Accidents

Blunt force trauma injuries frequently occur in workplaces, especially in construction, manufacturing, and warehouse settings. Common causes include:

• Falling objects
• Heavy machinery accidents
• Slips and trips on hazardous surfaces

Workers’ compensation covers medical expenses and lost wages for injured employees. However, if a third party (such as an equipment manufacturer) was responsible for the accident, the victim may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit for additional damages.

New Jersey Case Law and Notable Lawsuits

Several New Jersey cases highlight the importance of pursuing legal action after a blunt-force trauma injury:

• Polzo v. County of Essex (2012): This case emphasized the duty of local governments to maintain roadways and prevent hazards that contribute to accidents. Read More

This case demonstrates how victims can hold negligent parties accountable and recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Consult with an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney

If you or a loved one suffered a blunt-force trauma injury due to someone else’s negligence, you don’t have to navigate the legal process alone. At Rosengard Law Group, we have extensive experience handling personal injury claims in New Jersey, fighting for maximum compensation for our clients.

Why choose us?

• No Upfront Fees: We work on a contingency fee basis—if we don’t win, you don’t pay.
• Proven Track Record: Decades of experience securing compensation for accident victims.
• Personalized Attention: We treat every case with care, compassion, and aggressive legal representation.

Contact us today for a free consultation at Rosengard Law Group or call (856) 284-6446 to discuss your legal options.