Most Common Injuries from an Auto Accident
Auto accidents are sudden and often devastating events that can lead to a myriad of injuries, some of which may not be immediately apparent. Understanding the common injuries that result from these traumatic incidents is crucial for victims. This knowledge not only aids in seeking prompt medical care but is also essential in the pursuit of rightful compensation.
For residents and commuters in Riverside, California, being informed is the first step toward recovery and seeking justice. As personal injury lawyers in Riverside, we at Wagner Zemming Christensen, LLP are committed to helping you understand these injuries and navigate the path to compensation.
Head and Neck Injuries
Whiplash
Perhaps the injury most associated with rear-end collisions, whiplash occurs when a sudden, forceful movement of the head is followed by a rebound in the opposite direction. This whip-like motion can cause significant damage to the neck muscles and ligaments.
Concussions
A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that affects your brain function. Effects are usually temporary but can include headaches and problems with concentration, memory, balance, and coordination.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
In the more severe spectrum, victims may suffer traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) due to a collision. TBIs can lead to a wide range of short or long-term issues affecting cognitive function, motor skills, sensation, and emotional well-being.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Herniated Discs
The impact of a car accident can cause the discs in your spine to shift or herniate, leading to back pain, numbness, or weakness in one or both legs.
Spinal Fractures
The force of a crash can fracture any part of your spine. The resulting pain and mobility issues are often severe.
Paralysis
The most devastating of spinal injuries, paralysis occurs when the spinal cord is damaged enough to disrupt communication between the body and the brain.
Chest and Abdominal Injuries
Broken Ribs
Ribs are fragile and can break or fracture due to the impact of a car crash. Such injuries are painful and can pose serious risks if they puncture nearby organs.
Organ Damage
The impact from an auto accident can cause damage to organs like the lungs, heart, liver, and spleen.
Internal Bleeding
This is a less apparent but critical condition that can occur after a collision. It requires immediate medical attention to prevent life-threatening complications.
Limb Injuries
Fractures and Breaks
Arms and legs can easily be broken in car accidents due to the force against the steering wheel, dashboard, or sides of the vehicle.
Dislocations
A joint can be dislocated when a bone is pushed out of its joint by the force of a collision.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Strains, sprains, and tears can affect the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the limbs, causing debilitating pain and requiring physical therapy to heal.
Psychological Injuries
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Victims of car accidents can suffer from PTSD, reliving the trauma through flashbacks and nightmares that significantly impact their daily lives.
Anxiety and Depression
Following an accident, survivors often grapple with feelings of anxiety and depression, sometimes due to the pain and adjustment to their injuries or due to the emotional shock of the experience.
Seeking Legal Help
Understanding the nature of these injuries is one thing, but knowing your rights and seeking fair compensation is another. It is why consulting with Riverside personal injury lawyers is imperative after an auto accident. They can guide you through the complexities of legal claims and compensation processes, ensuring you get the support you need for your injuries.
Riverside Personal Injury Lawyers
The law offices of Wagner Zemming Christensen, LLP, understand the profound impact injuries from auto accidents have on victims and their families. Our experienced team is here to ensure your voice is heard, and your plight for justice isn’t faced alone.
For expert legal advice and compassionate representation, contact Wagner Zemming Christensen, LLP. Schedule a consultation today by calling (951) 686-4800 and get the professional assistance you deserve on your road to recovery.