Did you know that 42,915 people died in motor vehicle traffic crashes in 2021?
Car accidents are horrific no matter where in the world they occur.
Have you sustained injuries from a car accident? Take your mind off your worries and take time to heal by learning more about common car accident injuries. Believe it or not, there are all types of injuries, ranging from mild to severe.
Once you understand what to expect, you’ll be able to heal faster and focus on your road to recovery.
Read on to learn about the different types of car accident injuries often reported.
Table of Contents
Soft Tissue Injuries
One of the most common soft tissue injuries in car accidents is whiplash. Whiplash is a neck injury that occurs when the head is suddenly and forcefully thrown forward and then back again.
Symptoms of whiplash may include neck pain and stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and problems with vision or hearing. In some cases, the pain and other symptoms can last for months or even years.
Whiplash is a serious injury that can have a major impact on your quality of life. If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible.
If you wait too long, the damage can become worse and more difficult to treat. After securing vehicle safety, you can then find a car wreck lawyer to help determine if you are qualified to make a claim.
Types of Car Accident Injuries: Scrapes and Cuts
Numerous types of car accident injuries can happen, ranging from minor to life-threatening. While some injuries, such as cuts and scrapes, may seem minor at first, they can still lead to complications if not treated properly.
Cuts and scrapes are some of the most common injuries sustained in car accidents. They can occur when glass shatters, metal bends or other debris comes into contact with the skin. While these injuries may not seem serious, they can still lead to infection if they are not properly cleaned and covered.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car accident, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Even if the injuries seem minor, they may still require treatment to prevent further complications.
Burns
Burns can be caused by a variety of factors in a car accident. These factors include contact with a hot surface, exposure to chemicals, and electrical currents.
Burns are categorized by how deep they penetrate the skin.
One category is the first-degree burn. These burns usually result from contact with hot surfaces for brief periods.
The skin will turn red and there will be pain and swelling. This type of burn is similar to a sunburn.
Another is the second-degree burn. These are more serious, as they cause the skin to blister and become very painful. The skin will be red and swollen, and there will be a loss of sensation in the area.
Third-degree burns damage all the layers of skin and can even damage the muscles and bones underneath. The skin will be blackened and there will be no sensation in the affected areas.
In severe cases, burns can lead to death. If you have been involved in a car accident, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.
You should do this even if you do not think you have been injured. Keep in mind that some injuries, such as burns, may not be immediately apparent.
Head Injuries
Another common car accident injury reported today is head injury. Head injuries can range from mild concussions to more serious traumatic brain injuries. In some cases, head injuries can even be fatal.
Head injuries are often caused by the force of the impact in a car accident. They can also be caused by the force of the airbags deploying. Head injuries can also be a result of impact from flying debris or by being thrown from a vehicle.
Although most people recover from these types of injuries, some people experience long-term effects. These can include problems with memory and thinking, as well as mood and behavior changes. Some people also have trouble with physical abilities, such as walking and talking.
If you or someone you know has been in a car accident, it is important to be aware of these potential effects. Early diagnosis and treatment can help minimize the impact of head injuries.
Chest Injuries
Chest injuries are usually caused by the impact of the steering wheel, seat belt, or airbag. In more serious accidents, the chest can be crushed by the impact of the collision.
Symptoms of a chest injury include pain, bruising, and difficulty breathing. If you think you have suffered a chest injury, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible.
Chest injuries can be very serious, so it is important to take all necessary precautions to avoid them. Wearing a seatbelt and airbag can help protect you in the event of an accident. This is true regardless of whether you are a first-time car buyer or a long-time car owner.
Arm and Leg Injuries
Car accidents can cause a variety of injuries to the arms and legs. Fractures, dislocation, and amputation are all possible. In severe cases, the victim may require surgery to repair the damage.
Fractures and dislocations can be extremely painful and may require surgery to repair. In some cases, the bones may not heal properly and may need to be fused. This can lead to chronic pain and disability.
Depending on the extent of the injury, recovery times can vary from a few weeks to several months. Physical therapy may also be necessary to regain full use of the affected limb. In some cases, the victim may be left with permanent disabilities.
Be Aware of the Injuries That Can Happen to You
Many different types of car accident injuries can occur in a crash. It is important to be aware of these so that you can be prepared in the event of an accident.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. An experienced car accident attorney can help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Feel free to browse our blog for more information about what you should do following a car accident.
