Common Car Accident Injuries |

Car accidents can happen to anyone at any time. They can cause minor or severe injuries, ranging from bruises and scratches to life-threatening conditions. If you've been involved in a car accident, it's essential to be aware of the most common injuries that you may sustain. This article outlines some of the most recurring injuries that car accident victims suffer and what you should know about them.

I. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Leading Cause of Injuries in Car Accidents

Traumatic Brain Injuries, or TBI, occur when the head receives a severe blow, jolt, or penetrating wound. Car accidents are the leading cause of TBI in the U.S. TBI can cause a range of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Some people may experience only mild symptoms, such as headache or dizziness, while others may have more severe symptoms, such as loss of consciousness, seizures, or coma. If you or someone you know has suffered a TBI, it's crucial to seek medical attention immediately.

II. Injury to the Spinal Cord or Neck: A Common Car Accident Injury

Car accidents can cause severe damage to the spinal cord and neck. One of the most common neck-related injuries is whiplash, which occurs when the head is suddenly jerked forward and then backward. Damage to the spinal cord can range from minor to severe, with some injuries resulting in partial or total paralysis. If you suspect that you have suffered a spinal cord injury, it's important to seek immediate medical attention to avoid further damage.

III. Burns: An Often Overlooked Car Accident Injury

The body can suffer burns in many ways during or immediately following an accident. If your skin comes into contact with hot fluids, surfaces, or chemicals, you may suffer burns. If the car catches on fire during the accident, you may incur severe burns that require surgery or skin grafts. Burns can cause excruciating pain and may lead to infections, scarring, or disfigurement. It's crucial to seek medical attention immediately if you have suffered a burn injury.

IV. Fractures and Broken Bones: A Common Consequence of Car Accidents

It's no surprise that broken bones and fractures are common in car accidents. Broken legs, ribs, arms, ankles, and wrists occur due to forceful impacts and can range in severity from fracture to total break. Some broken bones will require surgery to be reset and heal properly. Fractures and broken bones can cause intense pain and may require long periods of recovery.

V. Facial Injuries: Cuts, Bruises, and More

Broken glass and impact with the steering wheel can cause cuts and other injuries on the face. If severe, surgical correction may be required. In addition to cuts and bruises, facial injuries can cause dental damage, eye injuries, and fractures to the cheekbones or nose. If you have suffered facial injuries in a car accident, it's crucial to seek medical attention immediately to avoid further damage.

VI. Soft Tissue Injuries: More Serious Than You May Think

Soft tissue injuries may not be visible right away, but they can cause severe, life-threatening injuries. Whiplash, for example, is a soft tissue injury that can cause chronic pain and mobility issues. Damage to organs may not be evident to the naked eye and can cause serious, life-threatening injuries. It's important to seek medical attention after a car accident, even if you don't feel any immediate symptoms.

VII. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: Not All Injuries Are Physical

Not every injury resulting from a car accident is physical. Many people suffer from mental and emotional trauma after an accident. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can be diagnosed by a trained psychiatrist. Symptoms typically include feeling worried or anxious about activities