From minor bruises to life-altering injuries, car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries. Several elements determine the degree of injuries, including passenger posture, speed of impact, and use of safety devices like airbags and seatbelts. While some injuries heal with time and treatment, others could permanently affect a victim’s life.
The car accident lawyers at Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi P.C. have seen how these injuries affect individuals financially, emotionally, and physically. While some injuries may show up days later, some demand quick medical attention. Whatever the form, automobile accident injuries can cause agony, medical bills, and missed income. The most often occurring types of injuries victims of car accidents may experience are discussed below.
Head and Brain Injuries
Among the most catastrophic effects of an automobile collision are head injuries. Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) may result from a victim’s head striking a window, dashboard, or steering wheel. Mild concussions to serious brain damage resulting in cognitive problems can all be TBIs. Sometimes brain injuries result in long-term problems like speech issues and memory loss.
Neck Injuries
Especially in rear-end accidents, neck injuries are somewhat common. The sudden back-and-forth motion of whiplash strains the muscles and ligaments in the neck. This kind of damage could cause months-long, severe discomfort and stiffness. Moreover, neck injuries often affect the spine and nervous system.
Back and Spinal Cord Injuries
Back injuries from auto accidents can range from mild muscle strains to serious spinal cord damage. Ongoing pain and mobility problems can result from herniated discs and fractures. Should the spinal cord be compromised, the person could be either partially or completely paralyzed. Many times, these injuries call for prolonged treatment, including physical therapy and surgery.
Chest Injuries
Trauma from blunt forces to the chest can damage important organs, cause internal bleeding, and break ribs. Lung punctures may cause victims difficulties in breathing. The impact may possibly cause cardiac problems for some persons with pre-existing heart disorders. Chest injuries often require quick medical attention to prevent potentially fatal complications.
Internal Injuries
Because they are not usually immediately noticeable, internal injuries can be lethal. Internal bleeding results from injury to organs, including the kidney, spleen, or liver caused by an accident. These injuries might kill you without quick medical attention. Many internal injuries require surgery to prevent further problems.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries compromise ligaments, tendons, and muscles. Significant pain and swelling can result from sprains, strains, and contusions. Among the most often occurring soft tissue injuries in vehicle collisions is whiplash. The severity will determine whether recovery takes weeks or months.
Fractures
The body being forcefully flung against hard surfaces inside the car might cause fractures. Impact can cause fractures in arms, legs, ribs, and even the pelvis. Some fractures require surgery and metal plates or screws to heal correctly. Severe breaks could cause persistent pain or lifelong disability.
Burns and Lacerations
Should a car catch fire or explode, victims run the risk of suffering mild to severe burns. Burns can cause disfigurement, infections, and destruction of the nerves. Also causing major blood loss and scarring are lacerations from broken glass or metal trash. Deep cuts may require stitches or reconstructive surgery.