Car accidents happen every day. In fact, the U.S. Department of Transportation found that an accident occurs every 13 minutes throughout the country. When accidents do happen, they often result in injuries, many being serious or fatal.
Knowing what kind of injuries you may endure is essential if you are in a car accident. The team at Faraci Lange, LLP has a rundown of some of the most frequently seen injuries resulting from car accidents.
Whiplash
Whiplash is one of the most common injuries suffered in car accidents. It is caused by the sudden, forceful movement of the head. The most common symptoms of this injury are:
Pain in the neck and shoulders;
Stiffness and decreased range of motion in the neck;
Headaches;
Fatigue:
Dizziness:
Blurred vision; and,
Ringing in the ears.
In some cases, victims may also experience difficulty sleeping or concentrating on tasks.
Broken Bones
Broken bones are also common after car accidents. The severity of the broken bone can range from minor to compound fractures. A more severe fracture can lead to long-term disability and even loss of life in some cases. It is also possible for a broken bone to cause nerve and internal organ damage.
In the case of broken bones, treatment often involves immobilization with either a cast or splint, followed by physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises. Surgery may be necessary in some cases.
Concussions
Concussions are traumatic brain injuries (TBI) that can occur after a blow to the head. Concussions can also occur from a fall or other types of accidents. A concussion can cause:
Headaches;
Nausea;
Vomiting; and,
Problems with memory, balance, and coordination.
It’s critical to seek medical attention after getting a concussion. Depending on the severity of the injury, it may be necessary to get an MRI or CT scan to assess the extent of the damage.
Internal Bleeding
Internal bleeding is a serious consequence of car accidents and can be life-threatening and difficult to diagnose. This type of injury occurs when arterial or venous vessels are damaged or severed, leading to bleeding in spaces within the body such as the abdominal or chest cavity.
Automobile accidents cause internal injuries due to direct impacts, traumatic crushing events, and body jerking movements. Symptoms tend to vary depending on the location and severity of the bleed, though common signs include paleness, rapid heart rate, rapid breathing, and dizziness.
After a car accident, those experiencing the above symptoms must immediately seek medical attention for diagnostic testing. Diagnosing and treating internal bleeding can be complicated, so it is critical to pursue expert help right away.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries are typically the result of a sudden and violent impact, such as what is experienced in a car accident. These injuries can range from minor nerve damage to severe paralysis.
A severe spinal cord injury can require extensive medical treatment and physical therapy and even prevent someone from returning to work. These injuries cause immense physical trauma and often have lasting effects on the quality of life, resulting in emotional distress and potential financial ruin.
How a Personal Injury Attorney Can Help
In cases where another party caused the injury, those affected may be able to receive compensation for their medical costs and physical therapy. This is more likely to happen with a personal injury attorney working on the case.
Through their knowledge of the legal system, the personal injury attorneys at Faraci Lange, LLP will work with you to build a case and be your advocate in seeking compensation for damages after a car accident. We will provide detailed guidance for any injuries sustained and assess what your case is worth, including calculating lost wages and medical expenses that you may be entitled to. With our knowledge of local protocols for auto accidents, our Rochester and Buffalo personal injury attorneys can ensure that the other party’s insurance company does not take advantage of you during negotiations. By advocating on your behalf, we can improve the outcome of your settlement process and get you more appropriate compensation.
If you were injured in a car accident caused by a negligent driver, contact Faraci Lange, LLP right away. We’re ready to help you now — reach out online or by phone to get started. (888) 997-4110