Common Injuries Following an Auto Collision
Michael Babboni
Personal Injury
Have you ever wondered what some of the more common injuries following an auto collision are and how those injuries can affect you financially? Today, we will go over some of the more common injuries often sustained in a collision.Remember, the severity of many of these injuries depends on a few factors, including whether or not the injured party was wearing a seatbelt, how the car was hit, how they were sitting in the car, whether it was a low speed or high-speed crash and if the car's airbags deployed.
Soft Tissue Injuries
When you have a soft tissue injury, there is damage to the connective tissue of the body. This includes your muscles, ligaments, and tendons. It is one of the more common injuries resulting from an auto collision.
Whiplash is just one example of a soft tissue injury you may experience. This is an injury affecting the upper back and neck area. The sudden movements of the accident can cause these muscles and ligaments to stretch. An auto accident can also cause muscle sprains to the mid-back and lower back. The severity of the injuries depends on the force of impact the spine took in the collision.
Scrapes, Cuts, and Bruises
If there are loose objects in the car during a collision, they can fly on impact. These projectiles can cause scrapes, cuts, and bruises. Many times, these injuries are considered minor and won't require any medical treatment. However, more serious injuries can include blood loss and can require stitches. Bruises, cuts, and scrapes are also common if your airbags are deployed during the collision.
Head Injuries
Another common injury in an auto collision is a head injury. When a car unexpectedly has to stop or is hit, it can change direction and cause the driver or passenger's head to move suddenly and unnaturally. This can cause major strain to the neck muscles and back while also impacting the head. Your head could hit the dashboard or the window and can result in bruising and lacerations.
In more serious accidents, the fluid and tissue inside your head can become damaged on impact and result in a concussion or even brain damage in more severe cases.
Chest Injuries
Bruising is common in chest injuries but can also be more severe and include broken ribs and even internal injuries, depending on the collision's severity. Driver's often experience chest injuries when their chest hits the steering wheel on impact. During a collision, the body can be thrown forward, and that high level of force against the seatbelt can also cause some serious damage.
Extremity Injuries
We can't forget injuries that are common to our legs and arms during a collision. When you are in an accident, there is very little room for your legs to move around, which can cause your knees to hit the dashboard or the seat in front of you. Many of these injuries typically include bruises and scrapes but can also be more severe and include broken limbs and sprains.
Staying Safe
To avoid these injuries, you want to do what you can to stay safe while behind the wheel or riding as a passenger. Always wear your seatbelt, avoid distractions, and keep your eyes on the road. Be aware of your surroundings as much as possible.
However, even when you follow this advice, accidents do still happen. In that case, make sure you hire an experienced personal injury attorney to help you navigate the claims process and receive the compensation you rightfully deserve.