According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2019, approximately 2.74 million people were injured in vehicle crashes. Injuries seen after auto accidents can vary in many ways depending on the impact and severity of the collision. Injuries that are so extensive they leave victims suffering from catastrophic injuries, which could leave them facing several unexpected lifelong challenges.
Auto Accident Related Injuries
If you or someone you know has recently been involved in a motor vehicle accident, it is important to seek medical attention right away, as some auto accident-related injuries do not have symptoms that show up right away. Some of the most common injuries seen after a car accident include:
Traumatic Brain Injuries
If the impact of a collision is so significant that it causes the driver or any passengers to hit, or to be hit in the head, the victim could risk sustaining a traumatic brain injury. Symptoms may not be immediate but may often include:
- Nausea
- Loss of consciousness
- Difficulty thinking or retaining new information
- Headaches
- Anxiety or insomnia
- Fatigue
- Emotional outbursts or mood swings
- Impulsivity
Neck Injuries
When the neck and head unexpectedly jerk back and forth, it can cause major damage to the muscles and ligaments due to being forced beyond a normal range of motion. This can cause individuals to face neck strain or whiplash. These are soft tissue injuries that can limit head and neck motion, along with creating vision difficulties.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Back injuries, including those that are spinal cord related, are also seen frequently after an auto accident. As the spine is not designed to sustain significant impact, the back can be more susceptible to injury during an accident. Back injuries are also another injury that may or may not show symptoms right away, so it's important to be aware of any of the following:
- Muscle spasms
- Pain
- Paralysis
- Tingling
- Stiffness
- Numbness
- Failure to maintain a normal posture
- Tenderness
Broken Bones
It's likely for a victim's bones to be fractured or broken after being involved in a car accident. Although a broken bone may seem like a simple or minor injury, it can often be more dangerous than you think due to the ability to cause internal injuries that are sometimes hard to detect or treat. Some of the most common bones broken or fractured during an accident include:
- Hips
- Spinal Cords
- Wrists
- Skulls
- Pelvis Bone
- Tibia and Fibula
Internal Injuries
Flying debris, such as glass or broken car parts, or the impact of the human body hitting the steering wheel or dashboard, can leave car accident victims facing penitential internal injuries. These injuries are particularly some of the most dangerous to sustain because they require surgery to fix. Excessive internal bleeding can be fatal if the victim does not seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms that could help identify any internal injuries or bleeding may include any of the following:
- Swelling
- Fainting
- Abdominal Pain
- Dizziness
- Loss of consciousness
- Headaches or migraines
- Seizures
- Dark purple or blue skin in the injured area
Contact a Skilled Attorney
Working through the legal matters of your car accident can be stressful and a bit challenging, especially when recovering from any sustained injuries. Here at Schackow & Mercadante, we have the skill and dedication you need on your side during this difficult time of need. Our attorneys have what it takes to successfully represent your case and get you the compensation you deserve. You don't have to feel like you are fighting this battle alone, as we are here to offer you the support you need every step of the way. Let us be your voice.
Contact us today at (352) 261-6767 or visit us online to schedule your free consultation with a member of our team.