Vehicle accident injuries range from minor to fatal, depending on the circumstances of the accident. Seatbelts, airbags, helmets and other safety features can protect passengers from serious harm—if used properly. In many cases, passengers might not even realize they’re injured until hours or days later, after the adrenaline response wears off.
Recognizing the most common car accident injuries can help you understand what to expect when you’re in a collision.
- Whiplash and soft tissue injuries:Whiplash and other soft tissue injuries occur when ligaments and tendons are violently jolted. Sudden, forceful movements can overstretch and tear the tissues. You may also experience back strains and sprains from the impact.
- Cuts, contusions and scrapes:Loose objects, like purses, phones and coffee mugs, can fly around the car during impact. Similarly, your airbags can cause bruises and scrapes when they deploy. You may be cut by broken glass. These are typically minor injuries.
- Head injuries:During impact, your head may be jolted in unusual ways. If your head hits the windows or side panels, it can cause bruises, cuts, concussions and severe traumatic brain injuries. Seek medical attention as soon as possible.
- Chest injuries:Chest injuries often occur when the body hits the steering column. This is more common in cars without airbags. Bruises, broken ribs and internal injuries may result. If you suffered a chest injury, be sure to have a doctor examine you for internal injuries.
- Arm and leg injuries: Your arms and legs may hit windows, the seats in front of you, side panels, the dashboard or other objects. Bruises, broken bones and sprains often result.
Having an experienced advocate on your side is essential to recovering compensation for your injuries. When you’re hurt in a car accident, the knowledgeable accident lawyers at Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez, Murphy & Walsh in Sarasota, FL can help. Call today to get started.