Globally, road accidents are a devastating issue, with about 1.19 million people losing their lives each year in traffic crashes. Beyond the tragic loss of life, these accidents leave a trail of injuries, with millions more people suffering from non-fatal consequences, some permanent.
The economic impact is significant, burdening individuals, families, and entire countries. These costs stem from medical care, lost productivity from those killed or disabled, and even the lost work or school time of family members caring for the injured. Road crashes drain approximately 3% of a country’s GDP.
Car accidents are a frightening reality with seemingly minor collisions also leading to serious injuries. Understanding the most common car accident injuries and their treatments can empower you to make informed decisions about your health and recovery after an accident.
This article delves into these injuries and their modes of treatment.
Seeking Medical Attention
The nature of your injuries is irrelevant; see a medical professional anyway. A doctor can properly diagnose your injuries and create a treatment plan to ensure optimal healing and prevent long-term complications. Remember, some injuries may not manifest symptoms immediately, so a medical evaluation is essential to rule out any underlying issues.
Treating medical injuries may also warrant a large medical expense. If you’ve been injured in a car accident in a big and busy city, the medical facilities and their costs may not be something you are aware of.
Reports state St. Louis County sees the highest number of people killed in traffic, and pedestrian crashes in 20 years. If you were in a crash, between managing medical bills, lost wages, and car repairs, you would need an expert’s help. Let’s say you are part of these statistics in St. Louis in the United States and need to be hospitalized, a car accident lawyer in St. Louis, in such instances, would be of invaluable help. An experienced attorney will help you get an idea of what your medical treatment plans will look like, and get you the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
In the next few sections, you will learn about the most common injuries and ways to deal with the aftermath of accidents.
- Whiplash
Whiplash stands out as a common car accident complaint, impacting an estimated 2-3 million people every year. It occurs when the forceful back-and-forth movement of the head and neck strains or tears muscles, ligaments, and tendons.
In most cases, whiplash will resolve by itself in a few weeks. Treatment typically focuses on pain management through rest, ice application, over-the-counter pain medication, and physical therapy to restore flexibility and strength. In severe cases, muscle relaxants, prescription pain medication, or even steroid injections may be necessary.
- Fractures
Broken bones are another prevalent consequence of car accidents. The severity of the fracture depends on which bone it is that is hurt. And of course, the force of impact. Common fractures in car accidents include those in the legs, arms, ribs, ankles, and wrists.
Simple fractures might be treated with a cast or splint for immobilization, while more complex fractures may require surgery to reset the bone with pins, plates, or screws. Physical therapy is usually advised post-surgery or once the cast is removed, to regain strength and mobility in the affected area.
- Concussions
Concussions are traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). These could occur due to a blow to the head or a jolt, disrupting the normal function of the brain. According to TorHoerman Law, even minor accidents can result in concussions, with symptoms that may not appear immediately (eg. dizziness, nausea, confusion, and memory problems).
While most concussions heal on their own, this recovery process requires proper rest. This might include avoiding strenuous exercise, screen time, and loud noises. In more severe cases, medications to manage headaches or nausea may be prescribed. Following a concussion, it’s crucial to avoid returning to activities like driving or playing sports until a medical professional clears you.
- Others
Additionally, car accidents can cause a variety of other injuries, including:
- Soft tissue injuries: Strains, sprains, and contusions (bruises) are common and usually heal with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE protocol).
- Spinal cord injuries: Spinal cord injuries are the most severe consequence of car accidents, potentially causing partial or complete paralysis. The course of treatment depends on the injury’s severity and may involve surgery, medication, and intensive rehabilitation.
- Psychological injuries: Car accidents can also be deeply traumatic, leading to anxiety, depression, and PTSD. This unsurprisingly aligns with the American Psychological Association’s finding that car accidents are a major cause of PTSD in the general population. These emotional effects highlight the invisible scars car accidents can leave behind.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Should I Wait To See A Doctor If My Pain Is Mild After A Car Accident?
It’s best to err on the side of caution and see a doctor after any car accident, regardless of the severity of your initial pain. Not all injuries show up right away. Whiplash and internal bleeding, for example, can take time to develop noticeable symptoms.
How Much Longer Till I Recover From My Car Accident Injury?
There is no correct answer — your recovery time will depend on the type of the injury and how severe it is. Minor soft tissue injuries may resolve within weeks, while fractures or concussions can take months to fully heal. More complex injuries like spinal cord damage may require ongoing management.
What If I Don’t Have Health Insurance After A Car Accident?
Many states require drivers to carry minimum amounts of auto insurance, which can help cover medical expenses after an accident. Talk to your attorney about your options to learn about the potential outcome of not having insurance.
In conclusion, while car accidents are a common occurrence, the potential consequences can be life-altering. Understanding common injuries and their treatments empowers you to prioritize your health after a collision. No matter the kind of injury you’ve had, remember you’re not alone. Seeking medical attention can ensure you receive the care you deserve to get back on the road to recovery.
