Car accidents occur as a result of multiple factors ranging from driver irresponsibility to unforeseen factors such as health conditions (e.g., sudden heart attack). Whatever the cause, car accidents can have severe consequences for the victims.
This article will explore the most common types of injuries that occur after a car accident, as well as the steps to take in order to receive compensation.
Most Common Types of Injuries after Motor Vehicle Accidents
Modern cars are more advanced and safe. However, even today, car accidents can cause different types of physical or mental trauma. Some common types of injuries range from concussions and broken bones to soft tissue injuries and sprains. Let’s review each of these in more detail.
PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder)
To start the guide through injury types, let’s review one of the most common types of psychological injury after a road accident - PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder).
PTSD can result in loss of productivity, lead to depression, and have severe mental health consequences on a person. Thus, it is vital to treat the injury on time and get professional help.
Whiplash Injuries
Whiplash injury is a type of neck injury that often occurs after a road accident from an abrupt motion. The sudden motion that jerks a person's head can cause an injury, resulting in prolonged discomfort and chronic pain. In some cases, one can even have trouble with neck movements.
If you have received a whiplash injury, it is vital to seek timely medical care. Keep in mind that in some cases, the injury effects might not be apparent from the get-go, but do not postpone getting a medical check. By getting timely treatment, you will avoid negative consequences and recover faster.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Most injuries, even though severe, typically have high chances of recovery over time. However, when it comes to spinal cord injuries, things can get tougher. Spine injuries can result in significant health consequences, including temporary or permanent paralysis. Such injuries are more likely to occur during high-impact car collisions.
It is vital to seek immediate medical attention and to receive proper care following a spinal cord injury.
Concussions and Other Types of Brain Injuries
After a car accident, many receive a concussion or other brain injury, depending on the impact of the accident. A concussion is a form of TBI (traumatic brain injury). The symptoms of such injuries range anywhere from headaches to memory loss.
Long-term recovery can be difficult to predict but it is important that the injury is treated promptly, to ensure the best path to recovery.
Bone Fractures
Another common type of injury received during car accidents is bone fractures. The severity of bone fractures can vary from case to case. Some can receive minor fractures, but in other cases, there can be open breaks.
Even though bone fractures cause significant physical pain, they can generally be efficiently treated by medical professionals.
Sprains and Soft Tissue Injuries
A further example of an injury that occurs during a car accident is a sprain or soft tissue injury. These injuries can often go unnoticed for a few hours or days before a person may realise that they need treatment. Such injuries can have a severe impact on a person's movement and day-to-day activities by impacting muscles and tendons, causing discomfort.
These injuries can go “unseen,” yet you will definitely notice them in the form of physical pain. To avoid the severity of consequences, do not wait till they “disappear.” Seek medical attention to receive proper care.
Internal Injuries
Internal injuries include internal bleeding, organ injuries, and others. These injuries can also go unnoticed. However, these injuries can have a significant impact on your health if they are left untreated.
Such injuries are seen more commonly as a result of intense or high-impact car collisions. As with any type of injury, medical help is recommended.
Cuts
Cuts are less severe types of injuries compared to cases such as spinal cord injuries, concussions, and internal bleeding. However, even cuts can pose significant health threats. In the case of a harsher cut, an injured individual can suffer severe blood loss, nerve damage, or even an infection. As always, the first and best step is to seek medical treatment from a professional.
