Getting into a car accident can be a very traumatizing experience, especially if you or someone else is injured. It’s important to know, however, that some injuries are more common than others.
Whiplash
Whiplash occurs when your head gets suddenly and forcefully jerked forward and then backwards, causing your neck muscles and ligaments to stretch and tear. Symptoms of whiplash can include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, blurred vision, dizziness, fatigue and even depression.
Fractured Bones
Broken or fractured bones are also fairly common in motor vehicle accidents, particularly in high-impact collisions. The most common fractures occur in the legs, arms and pelvis. Symptoms of a broken bone include sharp pain at the site of the injury, swelling, bruising and difficulty moving the affected limb. Also, if the bone has pierced through the skin, you will likely see a deformity.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries are injuries to the muscles, ligaments and tendons. They are common in car accidents because of the force with which your body is jolted around during a collision. Symptoms of soft tissue injuries can include pain, swelling, bruising and difficulty moving the affected body part.
Head Injuries
Head injuries are also fairly common in car accidents, especially if you were not wearing a seatbelt. The most common type of head injury is a concussion, which occurs when your brain is jarred around inside your skull. Concussions can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, difficulties with memory and concentration, and even changes in mood. If you hit your head hard enough, you could also suffer from a traumatic brain injury (TBI), which is much more serious. Symptoms of a TBI can include all of the above concussion symptoms, as well as seizures, coma and even death.
If you have been in a car accident and are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is important to see a doctor right away. Some injuries, such as whiplash, may not show up immediately but can still be serious. Therefore, it is always better to err on the side of caution and get checked out by a medical professional.