Car accidents are a leading cause of injuries. During 2012 in the United States, greater than 5.6 million car accidents were reported. Of the accidents reported, 1.6 million involved injuries and 30,000 involved fatalities. The economic costs of car accidents are estimated to be $277 billion each year. Each car accident is unique and the experience of each car accident victim is unique, but it is helpful to keep in mind that there are some common car accident injuries.
Head injuries are a common type of car accident injury that can occur in a variety of ways, including because victims strike their heads against dashboards, steering wheels or windows during a car accident. Head trauma caused by car accidents can cause traumatic brain injuries that can range in severity.Traumatic brain injuries commonly result in cognitive deficiencies and may also cause other challenges for victims, including personality changes and emotional disruptions. Hearing and vision loss, as well as decreased motor function, may also occur. Traumatic brain injuries can require rehabilitative care and long-term care and may be costly to treat.
Back injuries are also commonly suffered in car accidents. Spinal cord injuries can be serious and may lead to reduced sensation or paralysis. Victims can also suffer other types of serious back injuries, such as a herniated disk. Neck injuries, such as whiplash, are also common injuries in a car accident. Neck muscle and ligament damage can be challenging to treat. Trauma resulting from car accidents can also lead to injuries such as broken ribs and internal injuries that are important to immediately address. Pedestrian victims and motorcycle victims may suffer additional or more serious injuries, including broken bones or severed limbs. Victims may also commonly suffer emotional distress that may require medical care.
Car accident victims can suffer a litany of physical, financial and emotional injuries that may require treatment and cause stress. The personal injury legal process provides resources to help so that victims do not have to suffer with the damages resulting from a car accident alone.