It is estimated that close to 3 million people in the United States are injured every year as a result of car accidents. Many of these require hospital treatment and cause permanent injuries that seriously affect people’s quality of life. Around a quarter of car accidents result in non-fatality injuries (approximately 6% of car accidents result in fatalities).
In this blog post, we will highlight some of the most common car accident injuries that occur in the United States. These include everything from serious injuries such as head and chest injuries to more minor injuries such as cuts and scrapes. Let’s get started.
Head Injuries
Undoubtedly, head injuries rank among the most serious injuries that occur during car accidents. While some head injuries may be minor, they can also result in life-changing injuries.
Head injuries can occur when a car takes an unexpected change in direction or stops quickly, meaning that occupants’ heads move in unnatural ways. Such movements can also cause muscle strains and strains in the neck and back.
A severe head collision may result in bruising and tearing of brain tissue, and even permanent brain damage. Such closed head injuries typically also result in concussions.
If you or someone you love has sustained a serious head injury as a result of a car accident, you may be eligible to receive justice and compensation. We recommend that you speak to an experienced traumatic brain injury lawyer to discuss your case.
Arm and Leg Injuries
Many different types of leg and arm fractures can occur during a car accident. While such injuries are rarely life-threatening, they can impact a person’s independence and day-to-day quality of life. Examples of arm and leg fractures that can occur include:
- Comminuted fractures
- Avulsion fractures
- Dislocation fractures
- Compression fractures
- Hairline fractures
- intraarticular fractures
- Oblique fractures
- Longitudinal fractures
- Spiral fractures
The type of fracture that is sustained will have a big role in how the injury is treated and how long the recovery stage will be. For example, comminuted fractures occur when the bone breaks into several pieces, while oblique fractures occur when a bone breaks at an angle.
In addition to fractures, other types of leg and arm injuries include bruises, scrapes, and sprains. The severity of these injuries may not be immediately noticeable and may only become apparent later (such as once the shock has worn off). Even if you feel okay, it’s recommended that you seek medical attention as a precaution.
Soft Tissue Injuries
When we speak of soft tissue injuries, we are referring to muscle contusions, bruises, sprains, and other damage to the soft tissues in the body. Injuries to muscles, ligaments, and tendons are common in car crashes.
One other common (and often serious) soft tissue injury worth highlighting is whiplash, an injury that affects the neck and upper back. Whiplash occurs when the head is suddenly moved backward and then forward with force. In car accidents, whiplash usually occurs during a rear-end collision.
Possible complications associated with whiplash include chronic and long-term pain or headaches, potentially lasting for many years after the accident. Symptoms of whiplash typically appear within 24 hours and include:
- Headaches
- Neck stiffness and pain
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness
- Constant tiredness
- Inability to sleep well
- Problems with memory and concentration
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
As with the other injuries here, it is recommended that you seek medical attention if you suspect you have sustained whiplash or another type of soft tissue injury.
Chest Injuries
Chest injuries are another serious type of injury that frequently occur during a car accident. One of the most common causes of a chest injury in a car incident is colliding with the steering wheel at speed. Seatbelts and dashboards can also play a role in chest injuries during a collision.
Signs of a chest injury may include chest pain, trouble breathing, abdominal pain, and fluid regulation changes. Common injuries include bruised or fractured ribs, muscle strains, and internal organ damage. It is essential that you seek immediate medical attention if you suffer a chest-related injury in a car accident.
Cuts and Scrapes
Compared to the above types of car accident injuries, cuts and scrapes can be considered a more minor type of injury. That said, they are incredibly common. More serious cuts may also require stitches.
Reasons for cuts and scrapes include loose objects such as mobile phones, glasses, and purses being turned into projectiles during the impact.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Not every injury that is sustained in a car accident is physical or even visible. It should be highlighted that the emotional and mental toll of a car accident can also be serious and long-lasting.
Post-traumatic stress disorder after a car accident can affect a person’s ability to perform and enjoy everyday activities. Speaking to a psychologist or psychiatrist is helpful in such situations.
Common Car Accident Injuries You Should Know About
As this article highlights, there are many different types of injuries that can occur as a result of a car accident. We recommend that you always seek medical attention, even if you feel okay. Furthermore, speaking to a professional car accident injury lawyer will help you to understand your rights and options in terms of seeking justice and compensation from the at-fault party.
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