Car accidents can lead to a variety of injuries, ranging from minor cuts and bruises to life-altering conditions. At Peter N. Davis & Associates, our team of experienced New Jersey car accident attorneys has witnessed the impact of these injuries firsthand. We understand the challenges of navigating the aftermath of a car accident and are here to provide valuable information for those considering filing a claim. Here we outline the most common car accident injuries and the significant effects they can have.
Impact Injuries vs. Penetrating Injuries
There are two primary categories of car accident injuries: impact injuries and penetrating injuries. Impact injuries happen due to the force of the collision, causing a part of the body to hit a hard surface like the dashboard or steering wheel. On the other hand, penetrating injuries occur when sharp objects like broken glass or metal fragments pierce through the skin, leading to additional complications and risks that require immediate medical attention. In both cases, the injuries can be severe and life-altering.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries are one of the more common injuries after a car accident, and they involve damage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons. These injuries can include whiplash, bruising, and abrasions. Whiplash is a particularly common soft tissue injury that occurs when the neck is suddenly forced backward and then forward, causing strain to the neck muscles and ligaments.
Broken or Fractured Bones
Broken or fractured bones are unfortunately common occurrences in car accidents. The impact in such incidents often targets the arms, legs, and ribs–areas of the body that are notably exposed and vulnerable. The resulting injuries can be excruciatingly painful, necessitating surgical intervention to restore function and heal properly.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
TBI is a serious injury that can result from a blow or jolt to the head. Concussions are a common, relatively mild type of brain injury, but they can have lasting effects on cognitive function, memory, and mood.
In more severe cases of TBI, individuals may experience prolonged unconsciousness, cognitive deficits, and significant changes in personality and behavior. Severe TBI can result in long-term disabilities and may require ongoing medical care and rehabilitation.
Spinal Cord Injury
Injuries to the spinal cord have the potential to cause paralysis and loss of sensation below the site of the injury. The extent of paralysis can vary depending on the location and severity of the injury, with some individuals experiencing partial paralysis (paraplegia) and others experiencing complete paralysis (tetraplegia).
Spinal cord injuries often require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and psychological support. The long-term effects of a spinal cord injury can be profound, impacting mobility, independence, and quality of life.
Amputation Injuries
In severe car accidents, amputation injuries may occur, resulting in the loss of a limb. These life-altering injuries not only have physical implications such as reduced mobility and independence but also deeply affect the individual emotionally, requiring long-term support and rehabilitation to cope with the loss and adjust to a new way of life.
Internal Organ Damage
Internal organ damage can result from the powerful impact sustained in a car accident. Such injuries often necessitate immediate medical attention and intervention to prevent further complications and ensure the best possible outcome for the individual involved.
PTSD
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a complex psychological condition that can arise following exposure to a traumatic event, like a car accident. Individuals with PTSD may encounter a range of symptoms, including distressing flashbacks, recurring nightmares, heightened anxiety levels, avoidance of triggers associated with the trauma, feelings of detachment, and changes in mood and cognition.
Fatal Accidents
Unfortunately, in some car accidents, lives are lost. In such devastating situations, the surviving family members may have the legal option to pursue a wrongful death claim. This legal recourse allows them to seek compensation for the immeasurable loss they have endured due to the tragic incident.
How To Avoid These Injuries
These common car accident injuries can be traumatic and life-altering, but there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of a serious injury in a crash. By following these tips, you can help protect yourself and others on the road:
- Wear Your Seat Belt: Seat belts are one of the most effective ways to prevent serious injuries in a car accident. Always wear your seat belt and ensure that all passengers do the same.
- Maintain a Safe Following Distance: Keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you. This gives you more time to react to sudden stops or changes in traffic conditions.
- Avoid Distractions: Distracted driving is a leading cause of car accidents. Avoid using your phone, eating, or engaging in other distracting activities while driving.
- Obey Traffic Laws: Follow posted speed limits and traffic signs. These laws are in place to keep everyone on the road safe.
- Drive Sober: Alcohol and drugs impair your ability to drive safely. Never drive under the influence, and always designate a sober driver if you plan to drink.
- Use Airbags: Ensure that your vehicle’s airbags are in good working condition. Airbags can significantly reduce the risk of serious injuries in a crash, especially when used in conjunction with seat belts.
- Stay Calm and Focused: Road rage and aggressive driving can lead to accidents. Stay calm, patient, and focused on driving safely.
By following these tips, you can reduce the risk of being involved in a car accident and help ensure that you and your passengers arrive at your destination safely.
Peter N. Davis & Associates Can Help After a Serious Injury
If you or a loved one has experienced one of the common car accident injuries such as whiplash, broken bones, or concussions, Attorney Peter N. Davis and our compassionate team are ready to support you through these challenging times. We recognize the physical, emotional, and financial toll that these injuries can take, and we are dedicated to advocating for your rights. Rest assured, we will strive tirelessly to ensure you not only seek medical treatment but also receive the rightful compensation you deserve. Reach out to us today at 973-279-7246 to arrange a complimentary consultation with a seasoned New Jersey car accident attorney who will guide you through the legal process with care and expertise.