While modern vehicles have impressive safety features to reduce the risk of death in an auto accident, these events are still incredibly common sources of injury. Depending on the extent, many of these injuries can lead to chronic pain, permanent or temporary disability, and surgical needs. That’s why it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible for a thorough checkup. To help you prepare for these situations, here’s an overview of three common types of injuries sustained in car crashes.
3 Common Types of Auto Accident Injuries & How to Address Them
1. Head Trauma
If a crash causes your head to smash into any surface, you might sustain a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Depending on the circumstances, a TBI can be characterized by bruising to the brain tissue, skull fractures, or internal bleeding.
Symptoms following these injuries may include confusion, headache, dizziness, vomiting, and blurry vision. However, not all head trauma cases result in immediate symptoms. In either case, it’s critical to see an emergency doctor immediately after possible head trauma, as these accidents can lead to severe brain damage, concussion, coma, or death.
2. Arm & Leg Injuries
Abrasions from steering wheels, seatbelts, metal, and glass can result in cuts and scrapes. These wounds may need immediate treatment—such as suturing—to prevent blood loss and infection.
In other cases, landing against the airbag and steering wheel can cause arm and shoulder fractures. Knees can also break when legs are thrust into the dashboard. Emergency doctors may address these types of trauma by surgically resetting the bone and stabilizing it with a cast. Healing often requires long periods of rest and continued physical therapy.
3. Whiplash
Whiplash occurs when the head snaps rapidly back and forth during an auto accident. This rapid movement damages cervical vertebrae and soft tissues in the neck.
Whiplash typically produces varying pain and stiffness in the neck and shoulder areas. However, many of these signs can take days or weeks to appear. Talk to a doctor about possible whiplash after an accident because this damage can worsen and cause permanent disability without prompt treatment. Treatment usually includes rest and immobilization with a neck brace.
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