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What are the most common injuries in a car accident?

Florida’s DMV reports that there are more than 17 million licensed drivers in the state. According to the Florida Highway and Motor Vehicles division, there were 402,385 motor vehicle collisions in 2017 that resulted in 3,116 fatalities and 254,310 injuries.

Many car accident injuries don’t surface immediately after a collision. However, in 2-3 days, victims may notice that their back or neck become stiff and painful. The discomfort may progress to their shoulder and down the arm. Some might begin suffering headaches, but ignore it by believing the problem is stress-related.

In any event, it is wise to undergo a physical examination soon after an accident to determine possible injuries. Otherwise, an insurance company may dismiss the claim as being unrelated to the collision.

Here are the most common injuries that Florida drivers may suffer from:

injuries from getting hit by car

#1: Whiplash

Whiplash is one of the common injuries that car accident victims endure. However, this injury is also one that may not cause symptoms until days later. Whiplash occurs when the impact of a crash jars the ligaments, tendons and muscles.

#2: Cuts, scrapes and bruises

Cuts and scrapes are minor car accident injuries that often occur secondary due to flying debris or broken glass. If not cleaned, treated and (possibly) closed, victims may develop an infection.

#3: Head and brain injuries

Head injuries may occur when a driver or passenger slams into a side window or the windshield. With bicycle or motorcycle accident victims, the trauma may take place when hitting the pavement.

Traumatic brain injuries, commonly referred to as TBIs, are one of the most common fatal injuries that occur in car accidents. The damage a victim’s head suffers may include skull fractures, internal bleeding and brain swelling. If the individual survives the trauma, they may be left with a permanent disability, ongoing pain or sleep disturbances.

#4: Fractured bones

Fractured ribs may occur when the impact of the collision forces riders’ bodies in a sudden and unnatural position, whether it be backward, forward or sideways. Accident victims might also suffer rib injuries from getting hit by a car when walking, riding a bicycle or being thrown from a motorcycle.

Other types of fractures may also occur due to car accidents. The extreme force that the body endures upon impact may break a limb, a shoulder or the pelvis. Fractures are often known to occur in side-impact and rear-end collisions.

#5: Spinal cord injuries

Spinal injuries ranging from herniated discs to fractured vertebra are also known to occur in car collisions.

#6: Knee injuries

Knee injuries occur when the front seat occupant hits the vehicle’s dashboard. The trauma may involve torn ligaments or displaced/fractured knee caps.

#7: Emotional injuries

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is not uncommon for car accident victims. Passengers may experience nightmares and relive the accident. Some may become reluctant to ride in a vehicle due to the fear of being involved in another collision.

Guilt is often suffered by drivers involved in motor vehicle collisions. They may feel guilty for causing the occupants in their vehicle or the other vehicle injury or death. Some may experience survivor’s guilt.

Car accident injury prevention

Drivers have no control over behaviors that others exhibit on the road. However, the actions they take may save themselves and their occupants. All passengers should wear a seatbelt regardless of traveling short or long distances.

Drivers need to adhere to the posted speed limit. Impacts and injuries are more severe at high rates of speed. Vehicle owners also need to ensure that their car, SUV or truck is properly maintained to prevent malfunction on the road.

Consult a car accident attorney

If you or a loved one suffer from an injury after a car accident, consult with an experienced attorney at Tragos, Sartes & Tragos who specializes in personal injury cases. Lawyers ensure that insurance documents are completed accurately and include the information necessary to receive reimbursement.

In some instances, an accident victim may not receive the benefits they need to fully cover current and future medical costs, lost wages and other expenses. Under these circumstances, an attorney has the knowledge to evaluate the case and assist victims to take the legal action needed to receive the deserved benefits.

We’re ready to help fight for your rights.

Contact the Tragos, Sartes and Tragos today for a free case consultation.