Common Car Accident Injuries and What You Can Do to Protect Your Rights
5.2 million people sought medical treatment for car accident injuries in the United States in 2022, according to the National Safety Council. Each of these injuries was unique and impacted people’s lives differently. Some people suffered significant physical pain, financial losses, and emotional trauma because of other drivers’ negligence. If this happens to you, the award-winning car accident lawyers at Keller & Keller are to help you. We will walk you through your legal options and fight for your fair recovery.
Common Types of Car Accident Injuries
You may suffer one or more of the following injuries in a car crash:
Head Injuries or Traumatic Brain Injuries
Head injuries and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are among the more serious car accident injuries. These can commonly include things such as concussions, skull fractures, and brain contusions (brain bruising). In severe cases, head injuries from car accidents may result in brain damage.
Facial Damage
Facial injuries can be from penetrating wounds, impact injuries, burns, or other issues. The crash may lead to scarring or disfigurement, especially in severe cases. Broken bones may occur in the nose, cheeks, or jaw. Eye damage can also occur.
Back, Neck, and Spinal Cord Injuries
The force of a vehicle collision can result in back, neck, or spinal cord conditions such as disc herniation, spinal stenosis, lumbar sprain or injury, facet joint injury, neck or vertebrae fractures, whiplash or whiplash-associated disorders, pinched nerves, nerve damage, and more. Some of these conditions, such as spinal cord injuries or thoracic spine damage, can be extremely damaging and lead to paralysis.
Chest Injuries
The impact from seat belts and steering wheels may cause damage to the sternum, chest, or ribs. In some cases, rib fractures can occur, and these can lead to more severe injuries like punctured lungs. Chest trauma can lead to serious complications and even death.
Shoulder Injuries
Shoulder injuries after a car crash can range from sprains and strains to dislocations or fractures, rotator cuff tears, frozen shoulder, SLAP (superior labrum from anterior to posterior tear) tears, shoulder impingement, and more.
Arm and Leg Injuries
Fractures are among the most common car accident injuries involving the legs and arms. These can range from significant issues like comminuted fractures (in which the bones are shattered) and compound fractures to less severe damage like hairline fractures. Other issues involving arms and legs include dislocated joints, nerve damage, ligament tears, and damage to soft tissues.
Wrist and Hand Injuries
Whether it’s trauma from the collision or damage from debris, you can experience fractures, dislocations, puncture wounds, ligament injuries, and other soft tissue injuries to your hands or wrists. In severe cases, amputations may be needed because of the injuries.
Foot and Ankle Injuries
Foot and ankle injuries resulting from a crash may include heel bone and midfoot fractures, Lisfranc fractures), puncture wounds, swelling and bruising, damaged ligaments or tendons, and sprains.
Other Common Injuries From Car Accidents
Other concerns include:
- Internal organ damage or bleeding
- Lacerations, bruises, and abrasions
- Crush injuries
- Nerve damage
- Soft tissue damage
- Burns
- Pain and inflammation
What to Do if You’re Hurt in a Car Accident
Immediately after the accident, follow standard protocols such as filing a police report, documenting the accident, and contacting your insurance company. It’s also essential to get medical treatment as soon as possible, even if you don’t think your injuries are severe. Hidden or silent injuries may not show up immediately, but seeking care as soon as possible is critical. Then, you can:
- Attend all doctor’s appointments, including specialist visits, follow-up care, and physical therapy
- Follow the prescribed treatment or care plan established by your medical team
- Be cautious about what you say to insurance adjusters or on social media
- Keep accurate records of your injuries and how they impact your life
- Contact an experienced car accident attorney to help you get compensation for your injuries.
Keller & Keller Can Fight for Your Fair Recovery After a Car Accident Injury
No matter what type of car accident injuries you’ve suffered, Keller & Keller is committed to helping you at every step of the legal process without added stress. We can help you understand your options, gather evidence, and work with insurance companies or represent you in court if needed. With decades of experience and over a billion dollars won for our clients, you can count on us to stand by your side and fight for the compensation you deserve.
