No one ever expects to be in a car accident, but unfortunately, they happen. Even a little fender bender can leave you feeling shaken, sore, and wondering what just hit you. Whether you walked away thinking you were fine or you are already starting to feel the aches creeping in, it helps to know what kinds of injuries are most common and what to expect as your body begins to recover. Here are five common car accident injuries.
- Whiplash
Whiplash is one of the most common injuries in car accidents. It happens when your head is suddenly moved backward and then forward, stretching the muscles and ligaments in the neck.
At first, you might feel fine, maybe just a little stiff, but then the soreness hits, usually within 24 to 48 hours. Neck pain, headaches, dizziness, and even trouble concentrating can all be symptoms of whiplash. In addition, it can mess with your sleep, focus, and daily routine, which is why it’s crucial to consult car injury doctors after a car accident.
- Spinal cord injuries and back damage
The spine is highly vulnerable in crashes. Herniated discs, fractures, and spinal cord injuries can result from sudden force, potentially causing:
- Chronic back pain
- Numbness or weakness in limbs
- Partial or complete paralysis (in severe cases)
While painkillers can help, they often just mask the issue without solving the root cause. Diagnosis often requires imaging tests such as X-rays or MRIs. Treatment may involve physical therapy, medications, and sometimes surgery.
- Head injuries and traumatic brain injury (TBI)
These are some of the most serious injuries, even in low-speed crashes. They can range from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries. Sometimes, your head hits something inside the car. Other times, your brain gets jostled just from the sudden stop, and that alone can cause a concussion. Watch for signs like:
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Memory loss and confusion
- Blurred vision
- Mood swings or personality changes
If anything feels off, don’t take chances. Get checked out. Brain injuries can be sneaky, and catching them early makes a big difference.
- Emotional trauma
Not all wounds are physical. The emotional impact of a crash can stick around long after the bruises fade. Some people develop anxiety around driving again. Others have trouble sleeping, replaying the moment in their heads. Talking to someone, whether it’s a therapist or a trusted friend, can make a world of difference.
- Broken bones and fractures
The impact of a collision can easily fracture bones, with the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis being most susceptible. Common fractures include:
- Distal radius fractures (broken wrists) from bracing against the steering wheel
- Femur or hip fractures from dashboard impacts
- Rib fractures, which can puncture lungs or other organs
Even small fractures need proper treatment to heal correctly. Follow up with a doctor and stick to your recovery plan.
Endnote
If you have recently been in an accident, don’t ignore what your body is trying to tell you. Even minor crashes can lead to injuries that impact your day-to-day life. Getting checked out by a medical professional is one of the best things you can do for yourself.
Image by u_p66g98oss8 form Pixabay
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