Auto accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, and their severity can vary greatly depending on the circumstances of the collision. However, some injuries are more common than others in auto accidents:
- Whiplash: Whiplash is one of the most common injuries in auto accidents, especially in rear-end collisions. It occurs when the head and neck are rapidly jerked forward and backward, straining the neck muscles and ligaments.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: These include bruises, contusions, and sprains of muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Soft tissue injuries can result from the sudden impact of a car crash.
- Broken Bones: Fractured or broken bones are common in auto accidents, particularly in high-impact collisions. Common fractures include those of the arms, legs, ribs, and collarbones.
- Head Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can occur if the head strikes an object or if there is a rapid deceleration of the vehicle. Concussions, contusions, and more severe brain injuries can result from auto accidents.
- Chest Injuries: Chest injuries can result from the impact of the steering wheel, airbag, or seatbelt. Rib fractures and damage to internal organs, such as the lungs or heart, are possible.
- Back and Spinal Cord Injuries: Auto accidents can cause damage to the vertebrae, discs, and spinal cord. Spinal cord injuries can lead to paralysis or long-term disability.
- Internal Injuries: The force of an accident can cause damage to internal organs, such as the liver, spleen, or kidneys. Internal bleeding may not always be immediately apparent.
- Facial Injuries: Impact with the steering wheel, dashboard, or airbag can cause facial injuries, including fractures, lacerations, and dental injuries.
- Burns: If the vehicle catches fire or there are chemical spills, burns can occur. Burns may range from minor to severe, depending on the circumstances.
- Psychological Trauma: Auto accidents can also lead to emotional and psychological trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.
It’s important to note that the severity of these injuries can vary widely based on factors like the speed of the collision, the use of seatbelts and airbags, the type of vehicle involved, and whether occupants were properly restrained. Additionally, some injuries may not become apparent until hours or days after the accident, so it’s crucial for individuals involved in accidents to seek prompt medical evaluation and treatment.
Hurt in an accident?
Krystin Collins
Attorney at Law
713-775-0332