What Are Some Common Injuries from Car Wrecks?

In a recent year in the United States, there were more than 5.6 million car accidents. Of that total, 30,000 involved one or more fatalities, and 1.6 million left injured victims.

The financial loss from automobile collisions is also substantial — approximately $277 billion each year, which is roughly $897 for each person living in the U.S.

While many of those who involved in car accidents suffer only minor injuries, others are not so lucky. Even some low-speed collisions can leave drivers and their passengers with life-altering injuries. Read on to learn some of the common injuries that result from auto accidents.

Head and back injuries

A head injury from a collision can be mild or deadly. Broken window glass can cut the face and damage soft tissue. If the occupants of the vehicle hit their heads on the dashboard, windows or steering wheel, they can wind up with traumatic brain injuries (TBI).

A TBI can run the gamut from a mild concussion to a coma. Often, those who suffer head injuries in car accidents are left with cognitive problems. They may require extensive — and expensive — medical treatment and rehabilitation.

Back injuries that damage the spinal cord can leave victims with partial or total paralysis. Victims may be left with limited or no control of their feet, legs, hands and arms.

Less serious but still painful injuries from herniated disks can cause weakness in the back or leg muscles, tingling, numbness and pain in the limbs.

Neck and chest injuries

Whiplash is a very common neck injury after a collision. It’s the result of sudden movement of the neck and head. Whiplash is a common injury when a car slams into the one ahead of it.

When victims suffer from chest injuries, they may be lethal. Blunt force trauma can break ribs and collapse lungs. Those who already have heart problems may suffer cardiac arrest from the trauma. Both internal organ damage and uncontrolled bleeding can prove fatal unless victims receive immediate medical intervention.

If you were injured in a collision with an at-fault driver, it is prudent to learn about your legal right to seek compensation.