The auto insurance industry predicts that the average driver will be involved in a car accident about four times in their lifetime. While not every accident results in severe injuries, even a small fender bender can leave you with an injury. Learn more about the most common types of injuries due to car accidents.
Whiplash
Whiplash is one of the most common injuries as a result of a car accident, and according to Dallas car accident lawyer, Tim Tate, it may qualify you for a personal injury claim. Whiplash refers to a neck injury that occurs when your vehicle stops or turns suddenly and the abrupt action causes your neck to “whip” back and forth causing injury to the muscles and tendons.
Stiffness and pain are common after an accident, but if they worsen, or if you lose your range of motion, you may have untreated whiplash.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
Even though your vehicle is equipped with airbags that are designed to protect you in an accident, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are common in car accidents. Whether your head hits the window or another part of the car, the impact may end up causing an injury to your brain.
Since TBIs are hard to diagnose, aren’t visible, and the symptoms typically show up later, it’s important to keep track of your symptoms and always get checked out by medical professionals after an accident.
Back Injuries
According to Brent A. Sumner, a car accident injury attorney in St. Louis, rear-end accidents are one of the most common types of accidents, and a back injury is a common result of that type of crash.
Like your neck, various parts of your back may be injured in an accident due to the impact of the crash. Lower back injuries, such as disk herniations, are most common, particularly in rear-end accidents.
Your back may feel stiff after an accident, but if it gets worse over time or if you lose your range of motion, it’s important to seek medical attention to treat your back pain.
Fractures
Regardless of what type of accident you are involved in, a bone fracture is a common injury. Whether you break your finger or your leg, a fracture can be painful and inconvenient. Always seek medical attention if you suspect you’ve fractured a bone.
Emotional Pain
Car accidents are stressful and scary and depending on the nature of the accident; some people experience long-term emotional issues which may lead to mental disorders like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). According to Florida truck accident lawyer, Jerrad Ohr, even though emotion injuries are invisible, they still require proper assessment and car after an accident.
Death
While thousands of passengers and motorists are fortunate to walk away from an accident with a painful but minor injury, an injury that causes internal bleeding or other severe problems can lead to death.
Although you can’t predict when or if you’ll be in a car accident, the best things you can do to reduce your risk of injury is to purchase vehicles with safety features, wear a seatbelt, and have age-appropriate safety seats for young passengers.
