Medical Malpractice – Confidential Mid Six-Figure Settlement (Emergency Department Negligence)

After a car crash on I-95, “Maria” was taken to the emergency room for evaluation. She spoke limited English but clearly communicated that her stomach pain was severe. The medical team focused on her obvious leg fracture, placed her in a cast, and discharged her with instructions to follow up with orthopedics.

What went unnoticed — and untreated — was a serious abdominal injury.

Within days, Maria’s condition deteriorated sharply. When she returned to the hospital a week later, she was nearly comatose. Emergency surgery revealed a perforated intestine and widespread infection. Surgeons had to open her abdomen from breastbone to navel to save her life.

A review of the records uncovered multiple missed warning signs. A nurse had documented a positive “seatbelt sign” — bruising across the abdomen, a known indicator of internal injury. Imaging showed unexplained abdominal fluid. Maria had even vomited blood. Despite these red flags, she was discharged without further testing or surgical consultation.

Our experts confirmed that Maria never should have been sent home. At a minimum, she required observation or repeat imaging to monitor for evolving internal trauma. The failure to recognize and act on these signs caused her to deteriorate dramatically, making her surgery more dangerous and her recovery far longer and more traumatic.

The case resolved for a confidential mid six-figure settlement, providing recognition of what Maria endured and the resources to support her ongoing care.

Names and identifying details have been changed to protect client privacy.