5 Most Common Injuries After A Car Accident

Almost 2.5 million Americans were injured in car accidents in 2021. If you find yourself on the wrong end of this statistic, you deserve money. The amount of your settlement will largely depend on the extent of your injuries, which includes the type of injury you experienced. Learn more about the 5 most common injuries after a car accident.

Back and Neck Injuries

Back and neck injuries can limit mobility and cause chronic pain. Of course, it's difficult to pinpoint what caused back and neck pain, especially if you didn't feel the pain immediately after the accident. It's best to get checked by a physician right away, whether you feel the pain right away or not. Treat all injuries seriously and go to any recommended physical therapy. Make sure not to partake in strenuous activities (and definitely don't post an active lifestyle online).

Broken Limbs

The force of an accident can cause a person to break bones. When someone breaks a limb, they must spend time in the hospital. Serious fractures may require surgery. On top of the medical bills (including physical therapy), the patient will not be able to work while in the hospital, leading to lost wages.

Lacerations

Broken glass and flying shrapnel can lead to lacerations that range from small cuts to severed limbs. Serious lacerations may lead to permanent disability, including the inability to work for the rest of their life. Small cuts likely won't lead to a large payout.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Some accidents can lead to brain damage. If you get whiplash, your brain will move violently inside of your skull. The thrashing can lead to serious damage. A doctor will need to examine you to determine the extent of the damage. Some people never recover full cognitive functions after a car accident. While not as severe, others experience memory problems for the rest of their life. 

Emotional Trauma

After an accident, many people refuse to get back into a car again. Those who do drive again may suffer from serious anxiety that requires regular treatment and even medication. Someone should be responsible for the trauma experienced and the cost of the subsequent mental health treatment. 

If you got into a car accident, go to the doctor immediately after the incident to have a doctor examine you. Even if you don't feel injured at the moment, you'll want a record of any physical injuries you incurred.

Click here for more information and to contact a local car accident lawyer.