According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 1.35 million lose their lives each year as a result of a car accident. On top of that, 20-50 million people suffer non-fatal injuries, with many incurring life long disabilities as a result. There are many risk factors and behavioral trends that are responsible for these injuries or fatalities, i.e., distracted driving, driving under the influence, and non-use of restraints or motorcycle helmets. If you have been injured in a car accident, you may be familiar with the psychological and financial drain that occurs after, but more importantly, did you get the help you deserve?
The five most common car accident injuries include broken bones, spine injuries, head injuries, psychological impact, and whiplash.
- Broken Bone: A broken bone or fracture occurs when a break goes through all or part of the bone. Commonly broken bones following a car accident include leg, arm, and wrist breaks. This type of injury is typically painful and results in limited motion, making it difficult to miss.
- Spine Injuries: Spinal injuries are common after car accidents, but not always diagnosed right away. Pain, decreased mobility, and the most severe end result, paralysis are complications of spinal injuries. These types of injuries can be life-altering and may require a prolonged recovery.
- Head Injuries: Head injuries can range from mild to severe and may not always present with recognizable symptoms. Seeking a medical evaluation is imperative following a car accident as even a mild headache may be a head injury and needs to be treated.
- Psychological Impact: While not a physical injury, the psychological stress or impact on your life following a car accident can lead to loss of sleep, anxiety or other stresses on your daily life. This type of injury is just as important for evaluation and treatment following a car accident.
- Whiplash: Finally, the most common injury following a car accident is whiplash. Whiplash most often occurs when a vehicle is struck from behind, causing a forceful back and forth movement of the neck. Typically, the symptoms of whiplash include loss of motion, headache, and pain. You may walk away from an accident thinking you have not been injured and wake the next day, unable to move your neck. Seeking medical evaluation and treatment is a priority.
The most common car accident injuries and their symptoms may not always be visible but still, require treatment. If you have been injured in a car accident and are experiencing pain or any other symptoms, make sure you are represented legally. The Law Offices of Reginald Keith Davis, Attorney at Law, will help you navigate the aftermath of insurance and medical bills that follow. Learn more about how we can help you today. Contact us @ 913-299-8789, for a free consultation