Car accidents occur daily, and although the circumstances vary, they often result in similar types of injuries. Whether it’s a low-speed fender bender or a high-speed collision, the physical impact can have lasting consequences. Some injuries are immediately visible, while others might take days or even weeks to surface. Regardless of the circumstances, it’s important to recognize how different types of injuries can affect recovery and legal options. Attorneys can attest to how often these injuries lead to legal claims.
Soft Tissue Damage Is More Common Than People Think
One of the most frequent types of injuries from a crash is soft tissue damage. This refers to injuries that affect muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Whiplash is one example. It happens when the head is suddenly forced forward and then backward, stretching the neck beyond its normal range of motion. This kind of injury is often dismissed at first, especially in low-speed accidents, but it can cause lasting pain and restricted movement.
Soft tissue injuries aren’t always visible on scans, which makes documenting symptoms and treatment especially important. Bruises, sprains, and strains can also fall under this category, depending on the severity. Many people need physical therapy and extended rest to recover, particularly when the injury interferes with daily activities or work.
Head Injuries Can Vary In Severity
In car crashes, head trauma can range from minor to life-threatening. A blow to the head might result in a concussion, which is a type of traumatic brain injury. While some recover from concussions quickly, others experience symptoms for months. These might include memory problems, dizziness, or sensitivity to light and sound.
More serious brain injuries may require hospitalization and long-term care. The impact of such trauma can extend to a person’s ability to work, interact with others, or manage everyday tasks. In these cases, legal representation can help account for ongoing medical costs and the toll on quality of life.
Back And Spine Injuries Can Be Long-Term
Back and spinal injuries are also frequently seen after car accidents, with herniated discs being particularly common in rear-end collisions. This happens when the cushion between spinal vertebrae moves out of place or ruptures, pressing on nearby nerves. Symptoms can include pain, tingling, or weakness in the limbs.
Spinal cord injuries are more serious and may involve partial or complete loss of movement. These injuries often require surgery, long-term rehabilitation, and changes to the home or work environment. Working with a car accident lawyer becomes particularly relevant in these situations, as the financial and personal impact can be significant.
Broken Bones Often Need More Than A Cast
Fractures are common in car crashes, especially in the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. Seat belts and airbags, while lifesaving, can also contribute to broken bones in certain conditions. Some breaks are clean and straightforward, requiring a simple cast. Others involve multiple fractures or require surgical pins or plates to stabilize the bone.
In some cases, a broken bone may not heal correctly, which can lead to chronic pain or reduced mobility. Physical therapy, follow-up appointments, and missed workdays all contribute to the financial burden of this kind of injury.
Psychological Effects Are Often Overlooked
Physical damage is just one part of what a car accident can cause. Many people experience emotional or psychological symptoms after a crash, including anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress. These effects can show up even if the person wasn’t physically hurt. Flashbacks, difficulty sleeping, and a fear of driving again are all common reactions.
While emotional trauma might not be visible, it can affect a person’s life just as deeply as a physical injury. Treatment from a therapist or counselor may be necessary, and mental health should be considered when looking at the full scope of the accident’s impact.
Internal Injuries Might Not Be Felt Right Away
Certain injuries may not present symptoms immediately after a crash. Internal bleeding, organ damage, and broken ribs can often go undetected until they develop into more serious issues. This is one reason why it’s important to get medical care after any crash, even if everything seems fine at first. Waiting too long can make treatment more difficult and lead to long-term health problems.
Injuries that don’t appear right away also make legal claims more complicated. Insurance companies may question the connection between the accident and the medical issue. That’s why proper documentation and follow-up are so important.
Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, some more visible than others. Each type of injury brings its own challenges, both physical and legal. Our friends at Pioletti Pioletti & Nichols discuss how recognizing the full impact of these injuries is essential for any meaningful recovery.