Common Car Accident Injuries

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that more than three million people are injured every year in motor vehicle accidents. While the circumstances and impact of every car accident are unique, some injuries are more common than others.

Car accident injuries are classified into two groups: impact injuries and penetrating injuries. Impact injuries occur when the body hits the inside of the vehicle during a crash. Depending upon the location and force of impact, a person can hit the windshield, dashboard, or side doors. Penetration injuries are the result of loose objects, such as metal and glass striking the body and causing lacerations and puncture wounds.

Common types of impact and penetration car accident injuries include:

• Arm and leg injuries: Especially in side impact crashes, a driver or passenger’s arms and legs can be hurled against the doors resulting in cuts, bruises, and broken bones.
• Back injuries: Back injuries are common in all types of car accidents. Spinal cord damage leads to impaired sensation and control throughout different parts of the body. Muscle pain and weakness caused by herniated disks is also common after a car accident.
• Chest and neck injuries: Whiplash caused by a sudden jerking of the head and neck is one of the most common motor vehicle crash injuries. Whiplash leads to pain and swelling that gradually decreases over time. Blunt force trauma occurs when a person hits the steering wheel or dash resulting in broken ribs, collapsed lungs, and even a heart attack.
• Cuts and scrapes: Shattered glass and twisted metal after a collision leave victims with painful cuts, scrapes, and punctures that are prone to infection and require time to heal.
• Head injuries: Car accident victims who strike their head on the dash, steering wheel, or windows may suffer concussions and traumatic brain injuries. These injuries may leave victims with lasting cognitive problems that may require long-term medical care.
• Soft tissue injuries: Soft tissue injuries involve damage to the ligaments, muscles, and tendons. These types of injuries vary greatly depending upon where they occur in the body. They can also be very painful and impact a victim’s quality of life.

It is important to note that not all car accident injuries are immediately apparent.  Internal injuries are not immediately obvious to the victim or witnesses at the scene. Others may take several days, weeks, or even months to develop and cause symptoms. Therefore, it is very important to seek medical attention promptly after a motor vehicle accident, even if you feel okay.

Beyond the physical pain and suffering that comes with a serious car accident, victims often experience emotional trauma as well. Some choose to undergo counseling to recover from the psychological impact of witnessing or being involved in a serious collision.

St. Clair County Car Accident Lawyers at The Cates Law Firm, LLC Help Victims of All Types of Car Accidents

A serious motor vehicle crash can be devastating in so many ways. Not only is there physical pain, but there is also ongoing medical care, expenses, and emotional trauma to deal with. St. Clair County car accident lawyers at The Cates Law Firm, LLC manage every aspect of your claim so you can focus on your recovery. To begin your journey, call 618-277-3644 or contact us online for a free consultation. Located in Swansea, Illinois, we proudly represent clients throughout the state, including the areas of Edwardsville, Belleville, and St. Clair County.