Bruises that appear in a straight line are often indicative of:

Bruises that appear in a straight line are often indicative of non-accidental injury because they suggest a pattern that is more likely to result from a specific action or event rather than an accidental fall or bump that would typically produce irregular or random bruising. In cases of non-accidental injury, such as child abuse, the patterns of bruising can reflect the use of an object or force that creates a distinct shape or pattern, which aligns with the straight line of the bruise observed.

Accidental injuries, particularly in children, tend to be more diffuse and scattered across the body due to the nature of play and exploration. As such, bruises caused by accidental mechanisms are less likely to form in a linear manner, making straight bruising particularly suspect for intentional harm. Thus, the presence of a linear bruise warrants further examination in the context of potential abuse.