I've been badly bruised in my shins, but there was no swelling. I have never experienced swelling from bruises alone. I had a recent foot injury resulting in bruises, and there was also swelling---but I found out that one of my phalanges had slightly dislocated. It was aggravated by a chronic problem I have with peripheral edema.

There may be a significant difference if the trauma is blunt force (contacting structure) or distributed pressure (air bag). Also, in her case, the discolorations may not be bruises at all, but transfer material from the air bag. The article misstates the "4 days" remark. That was what she was told, not what she claims.

I would say it is not wise to be suspicious of an accident victim, if the news is being reported by a newspaper long on sensation and short on facts.