Accidents can happen anywhere, but some types of accidents are more likely than others to lead to serious injury. Because they involve high speeds, motor vehicle accidents are among the leading causes of catastrophic injuries.
The most serious types of injuries an accident victim suffers are typically head and back injuries. These usually occur because the impact of the accident causes occupants to hit their head or back. A sharp blow to the head and subsequent swelling can lead to traumatic brain injury, which can mean lifelong difficulties or even permanent disability. Damage to the spinal cord can reduce a patient’s sensation and control over their arms, legs and other body parts and can even leave an accident victim paralyzed.
While typically less serious than spinal injury or brain injury, whiplash is a common form of injury and can be quite painful. The sudden movement caused by an accident, such as a rear-end collision, can cause muscles and ligaments to become damaged in this area. In some situations, victims even suffer from temporary vocal cord paralysis after an accident.
Whiplash can also accompany other types of injuries. Many car accident victims suffer injuries to the chest or neck after they hit the steering wheel or other parts of the interior of their own cars in a collision.
There are many other types of injuries that can happen after an accident and all of them require immediate, and sometimes long-term medical attention. They may also mean the victim is no longer able to work to make a living. When these losses are the result of another driver’s negligence, the injured may be able to recover compensation through a personal injury lawsuit. A qualified attorney can help the injured and their families understand how the law may apply to the facts of their case.
