What Is a Serious Injury in a Car Accident? Types of injury and what should you do?

 What Is a Serious Injury in a Car Accident? Types of injury and what should you do?

This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide legal advice.

Car accidents are a common occurrence on the roadways, and unfortunately, they often result in injuries of varying severity. While some accidents may only result in minor scrapes and bruises, others can cause serious and life-altering injuries. In this article, we will explore what constitutes a serious injury in a car accident, and what you should do if you or a loved one has been involved in such an incident.

Types of Serious Injuries in Car Accidents

Serious injuries in car accidents can range from broken bones and internal injuries to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and spinal cord injuries. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common types of serious injuries that can result from car accidents.

Broken Bones

Broken bones are a common injury in car accidents, and they can range in severity from minor fractures to compound fractures that require surgery. Commonly broken bones in car accidents include the arms, legs, ribs, and collarbone. Fractures can cause significant pain and may require surgery to fix.

Internal Injuries

Internal injuries can occur in car accidents when the body is jolted or slammed against hard surfaces. Blunt force trauma from a car accident can cause damage to internal organs, such as the liver, spleen, or kidneys. These injuries can be life-threatening and may require emergency medical attention. Some common internal injuries in car accidents include organ damage, internal bleeding, and ruptured blood vessels.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are a serious type of injury that can occur in car accidents.  These injuries occur when a person’s head hits a hard surface, or when the brain is jolted inside the skull. These injuries can range in severity from mild concussions to severe brain damage. Symptoms of a TBI can include headaches, dizziness, confusion, and memory loss.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries can occur in car accidents when the spinal cord is damaged or severed. These injuries can result in paralysis or even death, and they require immediate medical attention. Symptoms of a spinal cord injury can include numbness or tingling in the extremities, loss of bladder or bowel control, and difficulty breathing.

Burns

Car accidents can cause fires or explosions, resulting in severe burns. Burns can be very painful and can require long-term treatment, including skin grafts.

If you suffered any serious injuries after a car crash that wasn’t your fault, you may be entitled to compensation. You may be able to recover for your medical bills, property damage, and other financial losses.

What Should You Do If You Have Been Injured in a Car Accident?

If you have been injured in a car accident, there are several steps that you should take to protect your health and your legal rights.

Seek Medical Attention

The first and most important step is to seek medical attention for your injuries. Even if you do not feel like you have been seriously injured, it is important to get checked out by a doctor to make sure that there are no hidden injuries that could worsen over time.

Document the accident

It is important to document the accident and any injuries that you have sustained. Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damage to your vehicle. Keep all medical records and bills related to your injuries.

Contact an attorney

If you have been seriously injured in a car accident, it is important to contact an attorney as soon as possible. An experienced car accident lawyer from White Law PLLC can help you navigate the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation that you deserve.

Follow your doctor’s orders

It is important to follow your doctor’s orders and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure that you are on the road to recovery. Failure to do so could compromise your health and your ability to recover damages in a legal claim.

Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that serious injuries can have a significant impact on your life. They can result in lost wages, medical expenses, and long-term rehabilitation. Some injuries may even require ongoing care and support. It is crucial to work with an experienced attorney who can help you recover damages for these losses.

If you have been involved in a car accident, it is also essential to remember that not all injuries may be apparent right away. Some injuries, like whiplash, may not become apparent until days or even weeks after the accident. Therefore, it is vital to seek medical attention immediately following an accident, even if you don’t believe that you have been seriously injured.

The Legal Side of Car Accidents

It is important to note that the legal process for recovering damages in a car accident case can be complex, and insurance companies may try to offer a settlement that is less than what you are entitled to receive. This is where an experienced car accident attorney can help. They can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf and work to secure a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

If you have suffered any of these types of serious injuries in a car accident, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Your doctor will be able to evaluate your condition and create a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs.

In addition to seeking medical attention, it is also crucial to document your injuries and the accident. Taking photos of the accident scene and your injuries, as well as obtaining a police report and witness statements, can all help provide evidence to support your claim.

Overall, being involved in a car accident can be a traumatic experience, especially when serious injuries are involved. However, by taking immediate action, seeking medical attention, and working with an experienced attorney, you can protect your legal rights and work toward recovering damages for your losses. Remember that prevention is also key, so take steps to stay safe on the road and avoid accidents whenever possible.