5 Common Car Accident Injuries

Even the most careful drivers can be victims of car accidents. These accidents can cause injuries ranging from minor to severe. Here are some of these injuries.

1. Whiplash 

Whiplash occurs when the head and neck experience a sudden and forceful back-and-forth movement akin to a whipping action. This rapid motion can cause a range of soft tissue damage in the neck, including muscle strains, ligament sprains, and even herniated discs.

The impact of such injuries can linger for weeks, months, or even longer, leading to chronic pain and restricted mobility. Whiplash injuries often require comprehensive treatment, such as physical therapy, to aid in the recovery process. Physical therapy aims to alleviate pain, restore range of motion, and strengthen the neck muscles.

2. Brain and Head Injuries

Head injuries often result from a direct impact on the head. Depending on the severity of the impact, these injuries can range from mild to moderate to severe. The injuries can also affect the brain, leading to various complications.

The area of the brain affected depends on the specific location of the impact. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can result in damage to different regions, such as the frontal, temporal, or occipital lobes. These injuries can have a significant impact on cognitive, sensory, and motor functions.

Note that head injuries may not always exhibit visible signs of trauma. Even in cases where there are no external cuts or lacerations, the brain can still sustain significant damage. That's why you must seek immediate medical attention after a car accident, as internal injuries may not be readily apparent. Timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment can significantly improve outcomes and minimize long-term complications.

3. Back and Spinal Injuries 

One common type of injury is back strains or sprains, which occur when ligaments and muscles in the backstretch or tear due to sudden impact. Symptoms of such injuries include localized pain, stiffness, muscle spasms, and difficulty moving or bending.

Another severe consequence of car accidents is spinal fractures, which involve the breaking or dislocation of the bones in the spine. These fractures can result in compression of the spinal cord or nerves, leading to loss of sensation, paralysis, or even death. Risk factors that increase the likelihood of sustaining these injuries include excessive speed, improper seat belt use, and collision impact from the rear or side.

The potential long-term impacts of back and spinal injuries are substantial. Chronic pain and discomfort, limited mobility, and reduced quality of life can occur in severe cases. 

4. Chest Injuries

While minor chest injuries such as bruises are common, serious cases often require surgery. These more severe injuries may involve broken ribs and damage to internal organs.

Minor chest injuries like bruises can be painful but typically heal with time and rest. However, serious chest injuries demand immediate medical attention. Broken ribs can be excruciating and may require surgical intervention to realign and stabilize them. Such injuries can further pose a risk to internal organs, potentially leading to complications.

Damage to internal organs, such as the lungs or heart, can occur due to the forceful impact during a car accident. These injuries may result in difficulty breathing, chest pain, or other symptoms indicative of organ dysfunction. If left untreated, they can lead to life-threatening conditions.

5. Burns and lacerations

The deployment of airbags, while crucial for safety, can sometimes result in burns. Friction burns from seatbelts are also frequent, often caused by the sudden force exerted during the collision. Additionally, individuals may come into contact with hard or sharp edges either inside or outside the vehicle, leading to lacerations. These injuries can range from minor cuts and scrapes to deeper, more significant wounds.

Here at Borbi, Clancy & Patrizi, LLC., we are a team of experienced attorneys who specializes in personal injury law. We provide dedicated representation to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Reach out to us today, and let us fight for your justice.