If you have been in a car accident, you might have suffered from one of the following very common injuries: concussion, whiplash, traumatic brain injury, or skull fracture.
Also remember that these injuries require immediate medical attention. In addition to the above injuries, you may also suffer from whiplash or a concussion.
To learn more about the most common vehicle accident injuries, we’ve compiled a substantial list that you may be able to relate to.
Whiplash
In the event of a vehicle accident, an occupant of a car may sustain a whiplash injury. Whiplash is a type of neck injury caused by the sudden, forceful movement of the neck.
While whiplash is most commonly caused by a rear-end auto collision, it can also occur from physical abuse, sports, or amusement park rides.
Whiplash occurs when the soft tissues in the neck are stretched beyond their normal range of motion and become inflamed. While whiplash may appear immediately after the accident, its symptoms can develop over the next few days or weeks.
Concussion
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury. This injury happens when the brain moves rapidly due to a blow to the head. In 2013, vehicle accidents were the third-leading cause of traumatic brain injury (TBI) in the U.S.
Most people do not lose consciousness after a concussion, but symptoms may linger for years. In some cases, it may be difficult to distinguish between a concussion and Parkinson’s disease. A great post on what car accident you should report is published. Do check that out.
Traumatic brain injury
Many people are unaware of the dangers of TBI in vehicle accidents. While there are many ways to injure the brain, the most common type is a brain injury caused by a motor vehicle accident.
A car accident can cause diffuse axonal injury, which damages the white matter of the brain. These injuries are often difficult to treat because they damage nerve axons and cause serious problems with brain function. Another type of TBI is open head injury, which involves penetration of the skull.
Skull fractures
Among the most common injuries in motor vehicle accidents, skull fractures rank high on the list. A car accident often involves two vehicles colliding head-on, and the SUV driver will be propelled forward by a bus. More info on common accidents in OC.
A person’s skull is comprised of eight bones and the cranium reinforces the stability of this structure. A blunt force trauma to the head can fracture a skull bone and cause injuries to the brain, blood vessels, and skin.
The most common type of skull fracture is a simple fracture, which is the simplest to treat and is usually the least serious for the victim’s long-term health.
Coma
A coma is one of the most severe injuries that can result from a vehicle accident. This condition is the most severe of all possible brain injuries and requires immediate medical attention.
It can occur for various reasons, including blood loss, lung and rib damage, or a shortage of oxygen. Symptoms can manifest hours or days after the crash.
If you suspect that your loved one is suffering from a TBI, visit an emergency room immediately.
Broken bones are another common injury, particularly in head-on collisions. Some fractures are simple, but some may require surgery and a long rehabilitation process. The worst fractures can even lead to long-term disability.
