What are common signs of blunt force trauma?

The signs of blunt force trauma typically include bruising, abrasions, lacerations, and fractures. Bruising occurs when blood vessels are damaged, leading to discoloration of the skin. Abrasions, which are superficial injuries, occur when the skin is scraped away, while lacerations represent deeper cuts that can vary in severity. Fractures indicate breaks or cracks in the bone caused by a forceful impact. These symptoms collectively reflect the physical harm inflicted by blunt objects or forces, which can vary in intensity depending on the nature of the trauma. Recognizing these signs is crucial in forensic pathology to determine the nature and severity of injuries sustained by an individual.

Other options, while they may indicate different types of trauma or injury, do not accurately represent the common indicators associated with blunt force trauma specifically. Rashes and redness may relate to allergic reactions or infections, burns and scarring typically arise from thermal injuries, and internal bleeding alone may not present physical signs without concurrent external manifestations. The distinct combination of bruising, abrasions, lacerations, and fractures makes the selected answer the most appropriate representation of blunt force trauma signs.