What are the Most Common Car Accident Injuries?

 Posted on March 25,2019 in Car Accidents

Every year, millions of Americans are seriously injured in car accidents. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 2.5 million Americans are sent to the emergency room after suffering injuries in motor vehicle collisions each year. 

Life-changing injuries can occur even when a driver or passenger takes all conceivable safety precautions. The impacts of an injury are not limited to the pain itself, as severe injuries can result in costly medical bills and significant loss of work hours. On an annual basis, people injured in car accidents pay about $18 billion in medical expenses while losing an estimated $33 billion in work income.

Below, we will explore some of the most common injuries suffered in car accidents. If you were injured in a motor vehicle collision, contact a skilled personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.

Chest Injuries

These injuries are very common in car accidents, especially for drivers. Due to the limited space between a driver’s chest and the steering wheel, the impact can be severe. From extensive bruising to fractured ribs and punctured lungs, chest injuries of any severity should be taken seriously. If you experience a chest injury, you may suffer internal bleeding. Make sure you seek medical attention quickly. 

Traumatic Brain Injuries

From minor concussions to skull fractures, car accidents account for more than half of all traumatic brain injuries in the United States. In many cases, the impact of a traumatic brain injury can come with life-changing complications. Symptoms of brain trauma range from chronic light sensitivity to decreased cognitive ability. A traumatic brain injury can occur from blunt force or jerking of the head. 

Spinal injuries

Severe spinal injuries can occur in even minor car accidents. The most common spinal injury is whiplash, but breaks and fractures are not uncommon in car collisions. Complete spinal injuries can result in permanent paralysis. 

Contact a Waukegan Car Accident Lawyer 

At Salvi and Maher, L.L.C., we fully understand how traumatic a car accident injury can be. After suffering an injury, it is important to know the potential financial implications of medical bills and lost work. Our attorneys will formulate a comprehensive strategy to ensure you and your family receive the injury compensation you need. To schedule a free initial consultation with a knowledgeable Lake County personal injury attorney, contact us today at 847-662-3303.

Sources

https://www.shepherd.org/patient-programs/spinal-cord-injury/about

https://www.cdc.gov/vitalsigns/crash-injuries/index.html

https://mayfieldclinic.com/pe-tbi.htm