Which of the following is an example of substantial bodily harm?

• A. Any fracture of a bone
• B. Petechia
• C. Laceration requiring stitches
• D. Loss/fracture of a tooth

Answer: (A)

Substantial bodily harm means injuries that seriously impair health or create a significant risk of lasting damage, beyond ordinary cuts or bruises. A fracture of a bone clearly fits this because a broken bone disrupts bodily function, usually requires medical treatment, and can lead to long-term impairment or disability. Petechia are tiny pinpoint bruises that often signal minor issues and do not by themselves indicate substantial harm. A laceration that needs stitches can be serious, but it isn’t automatically considered substantial unless it involves deeper structures or lasting effects. Loss or fracture of a tooth is a dental injury and, while painful, is typically not the clearest example of substantial bodily harm under many statutes. Therefore, a bone fracture is the best illustration of substantial bodily harm.