There is nothing “common” about a car accident. Sure, statistics show that, on average, about 13 accidents take place every minute in the United States. Still, nobody involved in one of these crashes feel like they are part of something bigger than themselves or that they are just a number.
Every crash is unique in its own way, and the injuries sustained can be just as varied. Unfortunately, trying to file a claim with an insurance company can feel like they are trying to put your injuries into neat boxes that correspond to a pre-established list of common car accident injuries.
While no two accidents are alike, and no two victims will experience a similar injury in exactly the same way, the following are a list of some of the most common injury types that are reported in insurance claims and personal injury cases after car crashes. Whether or not you see your injuries listed below, contact 1-800-Injured as soon as possible to be connected to an attorney who can help fight to get you the compensation you rightfully deserve. 1-800-Injured is a car accident attorney and medical referral service that makes it easy for car accident victims to find proven legal support in their area.
Whiplash
One of the most common car accident injuries is whiplash, which is damage to the neck resulting from a sudden back-and-forth motion. In a car crash, the head snaps forward, down, and back in an “S” motion that causes soft tissues and muscles to hyperextend, tear, and become inflamed. Symptoms of whiplash include neck pain, headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, and more.
Broken Bones
In a car crash, passengers may be thrown violently against hard surfaces like the dashboard or window. This can result in broken bones in the ribs and arms. Motorcycle accidents commonly lead to broken bones (also known as fractures) because the rider often has more than one impact — first when they collide with the vehicle or other obstacle and again when they hit the ground since they have no protection like a car.
Internal Injuries
The force of a car accident can also cause internal injuries that may not be immediately visible or diagnosed. Internal injuries include lacerated or bruised organs and other internal damage to the body due to being thrown around inside the vehicle during impact. These types of injuries can lead to long-term health complications and, in extreme cases, death.
Obviously, it is impossible to properly identify an internal injury without a professional medical examination. That is why it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible after a crash, even if you do not feel any acute pain or discomfort to rule out potential internal injuries.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
Traumatic brain injuries are another common car accident injury that can have long-term effects on a person’s physical and mental health. TBIs can be caused by a direct impact on the head or from whiplash-type motions that shake the brain inside the skull. Many people overlook TBIs caused by this second cause since there is no apparent head trauma.
Symptoms of a TBI may include headaches, confusion, difficulty concentrating and speaking, mood swings, and more. Depending on the severity of the injury and the site of impact on the actual brain, victims may suffer symptoms for anywhere between days and months — and in severe cases, the post-concussion syndrome may last for years or even be fatal.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Car accidents can also cause victims to suffer from PTSD — a psychological disorder caused by the trauma of being involved in a serious accident. Symptoms include fear, anxiety, depression, flashbacks, nightmares, and more. Many people who suffer from PTSD undergo significant personality changes and may struggle to return to their normal lives even after the physical injuries have healed.
It is important to seek help from a mental health professional if you or someone you know is suffering from PTSD due to a car accident. With the right support and treatment, it is possible to manage symptoms and gradually recover from post-traumatic stress disorder. Seeking mental health support following a traumatic experience like a car accident is crucial to the healing process.
Sprains & Strains
Sprains and strains can range in severity from minor muscular pain and stiffness to more serious problems like spasms, headaches, dizziness, and vision problems. Sprains and strains can also occur in the neck, shoulders, arms, and back as a result of being thrown around during the impact of a car accident.
In some cases, these injuries may not be immediately apparent, but they can still cause long-term pain and discomfort if left untreated. Many sprains and strains recover with rest and physical therapy, but more serious injuries may require surgery. It is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible following a car accident in order to properly diagnose and treat any sprains or strains.
Seatbelt Injuries
There is no denying that seatbelts save lives, but sometimes they can cause specific injuries while mitigating others. Seatbelt injuries may include bruising, abrasions and lacerations, whiplash, chest pain or discomfort, and even internal organ damage across the chest where the seatbelt restrains a passenger during an impact.
It is important to be aware that any injury you sustain following a car accident can be serious — even if the seatbelt has prevented more serious harm. It is best to seek medical attention as soon as possible after an accident, even if the injury initially seems minor.
No Injury Is Too Small To Take Seriously
Car accidents can cause a variety of injuries, from minor bruises and sprains to more serious head trauma, internal organ damage, and post-traumatic stress disorder. It is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible following an accident to properly diagnose and treat any injuries that may have occurred.
No injury is too small to take seriously, and it is important to be aware of the potential physical, emotional, and psychological effects a car accident can have on your body — regardless of the severity of the crash. Taking proper precautions when driving and seeking help if you or someone you know has been in a car accident can help ensure a safe and healthy recovery.