727-381-9200

Common Injuries Caused By Auto Accidents

Car crashes are never the same. Sure, events can be similar, but there are always differences. As such, there's really no telling if a person will get hurt in an accident. However, because of how violent and chaotic the incidents are, it's not uncommon for people to sustain injuries in them. The kinds of ailments vary from one situation to the next. However, some injuries are more common than others, and those are what we're here to discuss. Don't be surprised if you get hurt in these ways following an auto accident.

Neck, Back, And Spine Injuries


Many people experience whiplash after car crashes. This is especially true when their vehicles are hit from behind. Whiplash occurs when a person's neck is forcefully bent backward, forward, and vice-versa. Symptoms include pain in the neck and shoulder area, headaches, fatigue, and more. Some people recover from whiplash within a few weeks, but on occasion, the effects can linger on and on.

Soft tissue injuries in the back happen during auto accidents as well. These include strains, sprains, and tears to muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Pain and discomfort will enter the picture with these injuries. You could need surgeries, braces, medications, and physical therapy to recover. The amount of time it takes to get better from soft tissue injuries can vary greatly. A person might be as good as new again in a matter of days. Then again, it could take weeks or months for the injuries to heal.

Injuries to the spine can occur in car crashes too. For example, Spondylolisthesis might develop when a vertebra shifts out of place. In these situations, the bone can compress nerves, causing numbness, pain, or weakness, making it difficult to walk. You could also experience a herniated disc from an auto accident. Basically, this is when a disc shifts out of place too. It can cause the same issues as Spondylolisthesis.

Fractures And Broken Bones


Our bones are only so tough. Yes, you can bust your shin on a coffee table, and it may feel like it's broken, but it is usually fine more often than not. However, hitting your leg on a piece of furniture and being in a car crash are two very different things. The latter is extremely violent, and a vehicle's frame can get pushed in on passengers. For that matter, the dashboard, seats, and more can be thrust on top of individuals. With so much going on, it's easy to see how people's bones can get fractured or broken in these incidents.

Psychological Trauma


Did you know some car crash injuries aren't physical? It's true. Many auto accident victims are left with psychological trauma after events. Emotional and mental challenges that people often face following crashes include:

• Anxiety
• Mood swings
• Guilt
• Depression
• Social withdrawal

Individuals may require counseling to overcome these issues, or at the very least, to learn to manage the symptoms. Prescriptions might be part of the solution as well. It just depends on the doctor/patient and how they want to proceed with the recovery.

Contusions And Lacerations


Obviously, your body can take a beating in a car crash. For instance, when the seat belt locks to hold you tight, and your body lurches forward, that hurts. Not only that, but it is sure to leave you with a pretty bruise across your chest as well. Then, what about the windows? They can break and shatter, throwing glass everywhere. Thus, it shouldn't come as a surprise if you get cut in some form or fashion during an auto accident.

If someone's negligence is responsible for your damages, hold them accountable. Contact the St. Pete Lawyer to see if you have the grounds to seek compensation. If you have a legitimate claim, he'll fight to recover the money you're owed.