Car accidents happen every day, and they often lead to serious injuries. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a crash, understanding the types of injuries that occur can help you determine your next steps.
Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a major collision, injuries can range from mild to life-threatening. If you need legal help, an auto accident lawyer can guide you through the process of filing a claim.
For personalized advice, please contact Attorney Tyler Monahan, partner at Turner-Monahan, PLLC, to discuss your case.
1. Whiplash and Neck Injuries
Whiplash is one of the most common injuries in car accidents, especially in rear-end collisions. It happens when the neck snaps forward and back rapidly, straining the muscles and ligaments. Many victims do not feel the pain immediately after an accident, but symptoms often appear within hours or days. Left untreated, whiplash can lead to chronic pain and mobility issues.
Symptoms of Whiplash:
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Limited range of motion
Some severe cases of whiplash require physical therapy, pain management treatments, and long-term rehabilitation. Insurance companies often downplay the severity of whiplash, so having an experienced whiplash attorney near you can be essential in securing fair compensation.
2. Head and Brain Injuries
Head injuries can range from mild concussions to traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Even a minor accident can cause a severe head injury, leading to long-term complications. TBIs can occur even when there is no direct impact on the head, as the sudden force of the crash can cause the brain to move violently inside the skull.
Common Head Injuries:
- Concussions: Can cause headaches, confusion, and memory issues.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Can result in cognitive problems, speech difficulties, and even permanent disability.
- Skull Fractures: Can lead to serious internal bleeding and brain damage.
TBIs can significantly impact a victim’s ability to work, perform daily tasks, or even recognize loved ones. A fatal car accident attorney can help families who have lost a loved one due to severe brain trauma pursue legal action.
3. Back and Spinal Cord Injuries
Back injuries are another frequent result of car crashes. The impact of a collision can damage muscles, nerves, and vertebrae, leading to long-term pain and mobility issues. The severity of a back injury can vary based on the force of impact, the angle of the collision, and whether the victim was wearing a seatbelt.
Types of Back Injuries:
- Herniated Discs: When the soft tissue between vertebrae slips out of place, causing pain and nerve issues.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Can cause partial or full paralysis.
- Lower Back Strains: Often result in chronic pain and discomfort.
Severe spinal cord injuries can be life-changing, leading to a complete loss of function below the injury site. Medical treatments can be costly, and victims often require lifelong care. A car accident settlement help attorney can guide you in securing the compensation you need for treatment and lost wages.
4. Broken Bones and Fractures
The force of a crash can easily break bones, especially in high-speed collisions. Recovery from fractures can take weeks or months, often requiring surgeries, physical therapy, and extensive rehabilitation.
Common Fractures in Car Accidents:
- Arm and Wrist Fractures: Often caused by bracing for impact.
- Leg and Knee Fractures: Common in side-impact and front-end crashes.
- Rib Fractures: Can lead to lung damage and internal bleeding.
- Pelvic Fractures: Can occur in severe crashes and may require extensive surgery.
Some fractures heal with time, while others require long-term physical therapy and rehabilitation. An aggressive injury attorney can negotiate with insurance companies to cover your medical expenses and recovery needs.
5. Internal Injuries
Not all injuries are visible. Internal bleeding and organ damage can be life-threatening if not treated immediately. Many victims of internal injuries do not experience symptoms right away, making it crucial to seek medical attention after any accident.
Signs of Internal Injuries:
- Abdominal pain
- Dizziness or fainting
- Swelling or bruising in the torso
- Difficulty breathing
Organs such as the liver, kidneys, and spleen are particularly vulnerable to damage in high-impact crashes. A car lawsuit lawyer can help you pursue a claim if your injuries were caused by a negligent driver.
6. Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries include damage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons. These injuries can be painful and take a long time to heal. Many people underestimate soft tissue injuries, but they can cause chronic pain and limited mobility if not treated properly.
Common Soft Tissue Injuries:
- Sprains and Strains: Can cause limited mobility and persistent pain.
- Torn Ligaments: May require surgery and extensive rehabilitation.
- Bruising and Contusions: Can indicate deeper internal injuries.
A delay in treatment can lead to long-term issues, so consulting an auto accident attorney is a smart move to secure proper medical coverage and compensation.
7. Psychological Trauma
Car accidents don’t just cause physical harm; they can also lead to emotional and mental distress. Psychological injuries can have long-lasting effects on a victim’s daily life, work, and relationships.
Common Psychological Injuries:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Can cause flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety.
- Depression and Anxiety: Often arise after a severe accident or injury.
- Emotional Distress: Loss of confidence, fear of driving, and mood swings.
A car crash attorney consultation can help determine if you’re eligible for compensation for emotional suffering.
Get Help from a Car Accident Attorney Near You
If you’ve been injured in a crash, you don’t have to go through the legal process alone. At Turner Monahan, we fight for the rights of accident victims and help them get the compensation they deserve. Our experienced auto accident lawyers have a strong track record of success in personal injury cases.
Call Turner Monahan PLLC for a Free Car Accident Consultation Today
Don’t wait to get the help you need. Contact us today for a free consultation with a top-rated car accident lawyer near you. Let us handle the legal side so you can focus on healing. Our team is ready to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with attorney Tyler Monahan to discuss the details.
Disclaimer
The commentary and opinions are for informational and educational purposes only and not to provide legal advice. You should contact an attorney in your state to obtain legal advice concerning any particular issue or problem. You can become a client and enter the attorney-client privilege only after hiring Turner-Monahan, PPLC, by signing a written retainer agreement.
