A car accident is something no one wants to experience. It can result in serious injuries and even death. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 2.7 million people yearly suffer injuries from car accidents.
Some of the injuries are minor and can heal within a few days. However, many are more serious and can last for a lifetime.
Here are some of the most common car accident injuries.
Soft Tissues Injuries
The most common car accident injury is software tissue damage such as muscles, ligaments, and tendons. A good example is whiplash, where a person’s neck is stretched abnormally and strains the neck muscles and ligaments. Often these soft tissue injuries are to the back and torso.
Cuts/Scrapes/Lacerations/Bruises
The force of a car accident can be extreme, and anything not secured can be thrown around the interior and puncture or bruise the skin. It may include a purse, cell phone, mug, or other items. Plus, the person’s body is often thrown forward and may impact the steering wheel or other components of the dashboard, causing injury.
Spinal Injuries
A very serious car accident injury is to the spine, which could cause temporary or permanent paralysis. Even minor injuries to the spinal cord could cause further health issues down the road. Additionally, the victim could suffer other types of back issues and hip problems from a car crash.
Bone Breaks/Fractures
Any quick impact on the human body can cause bone breaks and fractures. Car accident victims often leave the scene of a car accident with a broken arm or leg. In some severe cases, a person could even lose a limb in a car accident.
Head/Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is another common outcome of a car accident. Every year roughly 50k people die from a TBI, and 80-90k suffer long-term effects. A serious brain injury occurs when someone experiences a hard blow to the head, or their head is pierced with something. Some victims suffer only from a slight concussion.
Chest Injuries
Chest injuries are very common after a car accident ranging from broken ribs and bruises to punctured lungs. Seatbelts, dashboards, and steering wheels usually cause damage.
After a Car Accident
If you suffered an injury after a car accident, you might need help proceeding legally. Contact Baron, Herskowitz, and Cohen today for a free consultation about your case.
