Car accidents may result in various injuries and profoundly impact one’s life. Knowing the common injuries caused by car accidents is essential for every driver on the road.
From whiplash and fractures to concussions and internal organ damage, car accidents can result in significant physical trauma.
Recognizing these injuries and post-injury signs are necessary to ensure proper medical care, treatment, and legal representation from an experienced car accident lawyer. Read more to understand nine of the most common injuries that can occur due to automobile accidents.
Broken bones and fractures
Car accidents are notorious for causing broken bones and fractures, which are among the most prevalent injuries sustained when a vehicle is involved in a crash. For example, when there is a head-on collision or a vehicle collides with another object and comes to an abrupt stop, the forces exerted on the body can lead to significant trauma. These types of traumas include the following:
- Fractures of the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis
- Simple hairline fractures
- Complex compound fractures
Sudden stops can also cause the body to bend or twist, leading to broken bones. Additionally, a forceful auto accident impact can cause direct blows to the body, increasing the likelihood of bone breaks and fractures.
Lacerations and cuts
Lacerations and cuts are other common injuries resulting from car accidents. These types of injuries can be caused by the following:
- Broken glass
- Metal fragments
- Deployment of airbags
- Loose items or unsecured cargo
These injuries range from superficial scrapes to deep cuts requiring stitches or surgical repair.
The severity of a laceration typically depends on the force of the impact and the materials involved in the accident. For instance, a sharp object can cause a deep laceration, while a minor collision may only result in superficial abrasion.
Soft tissue injuries: Sprains and strains
Soft tissue injuries, including shoulder sprains or neck sprains, are common in car accidents and can significantly impact a person’s mobility and overall quality of life. A sprain occurs when ligaments—the tissues connecting bones at a joint—are stretched or torn, while a strain involves stretching or tearing muscles or tendons.
These injuries often manifest in areas such as the neck, back, and limbs, where the sudden force of an accident can lead to excessive stretching or tearing.
One of the most common soft tissue injuries that occurs during a car accident is whiplash. This injury occurs when the head is jerked forward and backward, damaging the neck’s soft tissues.
Symptoms of whiplash can include the following:
- Pain and stiffness
- Reduced range of motion in the neck
- Swelling and bruising
- Limited mobility and challenging everyday activities
Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are serious consequences of head injuries caused by car accidents that can have profound effects on a person’s cognitive function and overall well-being.
A concussion is a type of TBI caused by a blow to the head or a violent shaking of the head and body, which
can occur even in low-impact collisions.
Symptoms of a concussion may include the following:
- Confusion
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Difficulty with concentration or balance
Individuals may not immediately feel the effects in some cases, making monitoring for symptoms after an accident crucial. The severity of TBIs can range from mild concussions to more severe injuries that can result in long-term complications.
Long-term complications of a concussion can include:
- Memory loss
- Mood swings
- Difficulty with problem-solving abilities
Given the complex nature of brain injuries, it is essential for anyone who has experienced a head injury in a car accident to undergo a thorough medical evaluation.
Back injuries and nerve damage
Back and spinal cord injuries are among the most severe consequences of car accidents, often leading to long-term disability and chronic pain. The impact of a collision can compress, fracture, or dislocate vertebrae, resulting in damage to the spinal cord and/or surrounding nerves. Such injuries can lead to a range of symptoms, including the following:
- Intense Pain
- Numbness
- Weakness
- Paralysis
Understanding the seriousness of these injuries is essential for anyone involved in a car accident. For example, the lumbar spine (low back) bears a significant amount of the body’s weight and is subject to the sudden forces of a vehicle accident. Therefore, the lumbar spine region is particularly vulnerable in a rear-end auto accident.
Internal injuries: Organ damage and internal bleeding
Internal injuries, including organ damage and internal bleeding, are serious consequences of car accidents that may not be immediately apparent.
These injuries can occur when the body experiences significant trauma, leading to damage to vital organs such as the liver, spleen, or kidneys. Unlike external injuries, internal trauma may not present visible symptoms right away, making it crucial for individuals involved in car accidents to monitor their health closely after the accident.
Symptoms of internal injuries can include the following:
- Abdominal Pain
- Swelling
- Dizziness
- Signs of shock (Rapid heartbeat and confusion)
In some cases, individuals may be unaware of their injuries until they undergo diagnostic imaging or experience severe complications.
Psychological injuries: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety
Car accidents can have lasting psychological effects, leading to conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety.
Following a traumatic event like a car crash, individuals may experience a range of emotional responses, including fear, anger, and sadness. In some cases, these feelings may persist and develop into more serious mental health issues, significantly impacting daily life and overall well-being.
PTSD can manifest in various ways, including the following:
- Flashbacks
- Nightmares
- Heightened anxiety related to driving or being in a vehicle.
- Avoidance behaviors (Avoiding situations that remind them of the car accident)
The emotional toll of such injuries can be overwhelming, making it essential for those affected to seek professional help.
Steps to protect yourself from injuries in car accidents
Protecting yourself from personal injury in vehicle accidents requires a proactive approach and understanding of safe driving practices.
First and foremost, always wear your seat belt and ensure that every passenger in your vehicle does the same. Seat belts are designed to keep occupants secure during crashes and significantly reduce the risk of severe injuries. Furthermore, adjusting headrests can also help minimize the risk of whiplash by providing support to the neck during sudden stops.
Also read Where Do Most Road Accidents Happen?
Another crucial aspect of injury prevention is maintaining a safe following distance from the vehicle in front of you. This space allows for ample reaction time during sudden stops or emergencies. In addition, being mindful of speed limits and adjusting driving according to road conditions can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents.
Engaging in defensive driving techniques, such as scanning the road ahead and anticipating the actions of other drivers, can further enhance your safety on the road.
Additionally, avoiding distractions while driving, such as mobile devices, and being mindful of your surroundings can help you stay focused and alert. By implementing these protective measures, you can significantly decrease the risk of injuries in car accidents and promote a safer driving environment for everyone on the road.
Seek legal representation from an experienced Personal Injury Attorney.
Our experienced personal injury attorneys can help to ensure you have the best chance of receiving fair compensation for your injuries.
We understand the nuances of Virginia personal injury law. We can provide insights into how to best approach your case, whether through negotiation with insurance companies or in court if necessary.
Having our legal expertise on your side can alleviate much of the stress of dealing with insurance claims and legal proceedings.
The injury law attorneys at Preston, Wilson & Crandley, PLC can advocate on your behalf, ensuring that you are treated fairly and that your case is presented effectively.
Schedule a Consultation with Preston, Wilson & Crandley, PLC
At Preston, Wilson & Crandley, PLC, our experienced team ensures you receive the support and compensation you deserve.
Our attorneys handle injury claims ranging from bicycle accidents, pedestrian accidents, motorcycle accidents, truck accidents, and car accidents to drunk driving accidents and wrongful death claims.
Give us a call and let our experience work for you. We have been helping the people of Virginia since 1955 and are ready to help you. Schedule a consultation to discuss your case.
If you need a Personal Injury Attorney in Virginia Beach, contact us at (757) 486-2700.
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