11 Common Types of Car Accident Injuries and Insurance Claims
Table of Contents
It is common for people who experience minor injuries during an auto accident to go without medical treatment; however, some injuries, such as whiplash, do not typically show symptoms until several days after the accident. Because of this, it is vital to seek medical treatment immediately after an accident. The doctor’s report can be used then to help file any insurance claims, especially if any significant car accident injuries need ongoing treatment.
Here the List of Some Common Types of Car Accident Injuries
Whiplash
Whiplash is an injury to the upper back and neck caused when the soft tissue in this area is damaged from the whipping back-and-forth motion at the point of impact. Whiplash is the most common auto accident injury and, if left untreated, can cause many musculoskeletal problems.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries are the most common auto accident injury resulting in damage to tissues, such as muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Whiplash is a common soft tissue injury, sprain, and other musculoskeletal damage. Rapid movement during the point of impact and collision with the airbag can cause mild to severe soft tissue damage.
Scrapes and Cuts
Unlike soft tissue injuries, which occur below the skin surface, scrapes and cuts are caused when the skin’s surface is injured from projectiles or coming in contact with parts of the vehicle or its contents. Most scratches and cuts are minor and do not require medical treatment; however, some may require stitches and surgery to restore function to the nerves and surrounding tissue. Therefore, it is best to get checked out by a medical professional to ensure there are no internal damages and that the cuts do not require stitches.
Head Injuries
Head injuries are common among those involved in an auto accident and can range from minor damage to something quite severe. During an auto accident, the body, especially the head and neck, moves suddenly and unnaturally. These movements can cause significant damage to the body, including a concussion or other head-related injury. Additionally, should the head collide with something, it can cause severe damage requiring extensive medical treatment.
Chest Injuries
Chest injuries are common, including painful bruising, internal injuries, and broken ribs. Most chest injuries result from hitting the steering wheel, dashboard, or seatbelt.
Arm and Leg Injuries
Auto accidents can cause significant damage to a person’s arms and legs, including lacerations, broken bones, dislocations, and sprains.
Broken Bones
Broken arm and leg bones are common injuries resulting from an auto accident; however, any bone in the body can become broken during a car accident. Common auto accident-related broken bones include clavicle, rib, shoulder, and hip. Most broken bones can be set and placed in a cast until it heals, while some more severe breaks and compound fractures may require surgery to reset the bone properly.
Spine and Neck Injuries
At the point of impact, the body is tossed around in ways it typically does not move, resulting in spine and neck injuries. In addition to whiplash, auto accidents can cause paralysis in parts of the body resulting from spinal damage. Additionally, auto accidents can cause damage to the neck and spine, causing back pain, arm pain, sciatic nerve pain, and herniated disc pain. These symptoms may not appear the same day of the accident due to shock, and most experience pain and discomfort several days later.
Internal Injuries
Auto accidents cause internal injuries, which are not easily identifiable with a quick look at the body. Damage to internal organs, such as the kidneys, lungs, spleen, liver, heart, or bowels, can result from impact or puncture. Some internal injuries can be life-threatening, which is why immediate medical attention after an auto accident is recommended.
Facial Injuries
Facial injuries are often severe, resulting in damage and disfigurement. In addition, facial injuries can affect a person’s senses, including hearing, smell, and taste, especially if the nose or mouth is significantly damaged. Damage to the eyes can also be severe and, if left untreated, could result in blindness or other visual impairments.
Joint Damage
Auto accidents can cause joint damage, including torn cartilage and dislocation. Joint damage can cause a lot of pain and impact a person’s quality of life.
It is vital to seek medical treatment immediately after an auto accident because not all injury symptoms show until a few days or weeks later. In addition, auto accident injuries may affect a person’s ability to earn a living or care for their daily needs. When suffering from multiple injuries, the medical bills can pile up, leaving victims of auto accidents wondering how they will pay the bills and receive the treatment they need. A personal injury attorney or motor car accident lawyer can help auto accident victims receive compensation and the treatment they deserve.
