Did you know there are an average of 6 million car accidents in the United States every year? Three million of those accidents involve injuries. The damage to people and vehicles varies from person to person and crash to crash.
People experience some fairly common accidents. The type and severity of an accident can depend on certain factors like:
- Was the person wearing a seatbelt?
- Where was the person hit?
- Was it a high-speed crash?
- Did the airbags go off?
These factors can influence the injuries that people endure. However, you should be aware of common types of accident injuries.
What are some of the common accident injuries?
Neck and Chest Accident Injuries
Although the neck and chest seem very serious, this is the most well-known type of accident. You have probably heard of the term whiplash. Whiplash is a forceful back-and-forth movement of the neck, commonly occurring with a rear-end collision. The sudden movement can affect the neck and cause injury.
The chest area is also another serious accident injury. A candid movement can cause trauma to the chest, causing broken ribs or collapsed lungs. Not only are these injuries possible, but with extreme force, internal bleeding can occur, as well as damage to internal organs. If this happens to you, seek immediate medical attention.
Head and Back Accident Injuries
Head and Back injuries are the most severe. These injuries can range from mild to very extreme. An unexpected stop or change in direction can create a forceful movement of the head, leading to a concussion. After enduring one concussion, it is easier to get another. Your head is something not to mess with, so take precautions in an auto accident.
In addition, sudden and unnatural movements can injure your back. Damage to the back can cause nerve damage. If you cannot feel or control certain body parts, seek immediate attention. Substantial spinal cord damage can leave patients paralyzed.
Take Care of Yourself
Not only can car accidents physically injure you, but they can cause emotional distress. Serious car accidents can negatively affect the mental health of you or others. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is common for people who suffer from these severe accidents, and seeking a counselor can help treat the disorder.
Get Legal Help
If you have been in an auto accident, get the care and guidance you need. 1-800-ASK-GARY is a free auto accident and injury helpline that can get you help. We’ve helped more than 200,000 people injured in auto, trucking, motorcycle, and other types of accidents. If you’ve been injured or have questions, call our helpline at 1-800-ASK-GARY.
