Driving a car is an essential part of our everyday lives. With the convenience and freedom it offers, it's no surprise that millions of people around the world rely on cars to get them from point A to point B.
However, with that convenience comes a level of risk. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that there were over 6.7 million car accidents in the US in 2018 alone.
With that many accidents, it's important to understand the common injuries that can occur on the road.
Whiplash
One of the most common injuries resulting from a car accident is whiplash. This occurs when your neck and head are suddenly jolted back and forth, causing strain to the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in your neck. Whiplash can happen even in low-speed accidents and can result in symptoms such as neck pain, headaches, dizziness, and blurred vision. In severe cases, whiplash can lead to long-term chronic pain.
Head Injuries
Head injuries are another common car accident injury, and they can range from mild concussions to traumatic brain injuries (TBI). The sudden impact of a car accident can cause your head to hit the steering wheel, dashboard, or window, resulting in bruising, lacerations, skull fractures, or brain damage. Even if you're wearing a seatbelt and have an airbag, head injuries can still occur.
Back Injuries
Back injuries are also prevalent in car accidents, and they can vary from minor strains to debilitating spinal cord injuries. The impact of a car accident can cause damage to the muscles, ligaments, nerves, or vertebrae in your back. This can result in pain, stiffness, numbness, and even paralysis in some cases. Back injuries can also lead to long-term chronic pain and may require extensive medical treatment.
Broken Bones
The force of a car accident can also cause broken bones, which can be incredibly painful and take months to heal. Common fractures resulting from car accidents include broken ribs, arms, legs, wrists, or collarbones. These injuries typically require immobilization and may even require surgical intervention. In severe cases, a broken bone may never fully heal and can lead to long-term complications.
Internal Injuries
Internal injuries are those that occur inside your body, and they can be difficult to detect immediately after a car accident. The impact of an accident can cause damage to your internal organs such as your liver, spleen, or kidneys. These injuries can be life-threatening and may require emergency medical intervention.
Psychological Injuries
It's not just physical injuries that can result from a car accident, but psychological ones as well. The trauma of being in a car accident can lead to anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or other mental health issues. These injuries may not be immediately apparent, but they can impact a person's daily life and may require therapy or medication to manage.
Preventing Car Accident Injuries
While accidents are sometimes unavoidable, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of sustaining injuries in a car accident. First and foremost, always wear a seatbelt when driving or riding in a car. Seatbelts have been proven to significantly reduce the risk of injury in accidents. Secondly, make sure you're driving defensively and paying attention to your surroundings. This includes avoiding distractions such as texting while driving.
Additionally, make sure your car is well-maintained and up-to-date on all necessary repairs. Faulty brakes, tires, or other parts can increase your risk of being in an accident. Finally, always follow traffic laws and speed limits to reduce your chances of being involved in a collision.
Seek Medical Attention
If you are ever involved in a car accident, it's important to seek medical attention even if you don't feel injured. Some injuries may not show symptoms right away, and delaying treatment can lead to more serious complications down the road. Seeking medical care immediately after an accident can also help strengthen any legal claims you may have for compensation.
Conclusion
Car accidents are a serious matter that can lead to a range of injuries. From minor scraps and bruises to life-threatening conditions, it's crucial to understand the potential harm that can come from a crash. To protect yourself and others on the road, make sure to take preventative measures. Seek medical attention if you are ever involved in a collision and ensure that your car is well-maintained.
By driving safely and following traffic laws, you can reduce your risk of injury and help make the roads a safer place for everyone. And if you find yourself in need of legal assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to a car crash lawyer in West Jordan.