What Are the Most Common Injuries Sustained in Car Accidents?
Car accidents often happen and can cause all kinds of injuries. Some might be minor, while others can be much more serious, depending on how fast the cars were going and the force of the crash.
In some cases, victims may walk away with minor cuts or bruises, while others may suffer long-term disabilities. Some injuries happen more often, so it’s essential to understand them and how they can affect you.
Knowing the types of injuries often sustained in car accidents can help you recognize symptoms and seek prompt medical attention, as provided by the experienced car accident lawyers at Ellis Personal Injury Attorneys. Here, we will explore the most frequent injuries and their impact on accident victims.
Whiplash Injuries from car accidents
Whiplash is one of the leading injuries people suffer in a car accident. It occurs when the neck is suddenly jolted back and forth, usually from the force of a rear-end collision. This quick motion can harm the muscles and ligaments in your neck. Symptoms may not always appear immediately but can develop over time. Many people experience neck pain, stiffness, and headaches. In some cases, whiplash can lead to chronic pain if left untreated. Finding the problem early and getting care can help stop long-term issues.
Head and Brain Injuries from car accidents
Head injuries are another frequent result of car accidents. These injuries can be as mild as a concussion or as severe as a traumatic brain injury (TBI). A concussion occurs when the brain shakes inside the skull due to sudden impact or violent movement. More severe TBIs can result from a blow to the head, often caused by hitting the steering wheel or dashboard during a crash. Victims may experience confusion, memory loss, dizziness, or even unconsciousness. Serious head injuries can lead to lasting problems, like brain damage or difficulty thinking clearly.
Broken Bones from car accidents
Fractures and broken bones are also common in car accidents, particularly in high-impact collisions. The arms, legs, ribs, and even the collarbone are especially vulnerable. A broken bone can range from a simple fracture, which may heal with time, to a compound fracture, where the bone breaks through the skin. Victims with severe fractures may require surgery and extensive rehabilitation. Recovering from a broken bone can take weeks or months, depending on the severity. This type of injury can significantly limit mobility and disrupt daily life.
Spinal Cord Injuries from car accidents
Spinal cord injuries are some of the most severe outcomes of a car accident. Damage to the spine can result in partial or complete paralysis. A spinal cord injury may occur when the force of the crash compresses or fractures the vertebrae. Even a minor injury can have significant effects, like losing movement or feeling in areas below where you were hurt. Victims with spinal injuries often require long-term medical care and rehabilitation. In the worst cases, these injuries can last forever, needing special care and support for life.
Cuts and Lacerations from car accidents
Cuts and lacerations are typically caused by broken glass, metal, or other debris during an accident. These injuries might look small initially, but they can cause serious problems. Deep cuts can harm muscles, nerves, and blood vessels. In some cases, victims may suffer significant blood loss or even infections if the wounds are not treated properly. Depending on the severity, lacerations may require stitches or surgery to repair the damage. Even though cuts usually heal over time, they can leave scars that remind you of the injury.
Car accidents can cause many different injuries, some with lasting effects. Injuries like whiplash, broken bones, brain trauma, or spinal damage can change lives. Even minor injuries can get worse if they’re not treated properly. Getting medical attention right away can help avoid serious problems later. If you’re hurt in a crash, talking to an attorney can also help with any legal steps you need to take.