Miami Personal Injury Attorney Blog
When a car accident occurs, the aftermath can be overwhelming, stressful, and in many cases, painful. The injuries you could sustain depend on various factors, such as the type of vehicle you were driving, the nature of the accident, and the speed at which the collision happened. The severity of an injury can also differ from one person to another due to differences in physical health and age. Here at Wolfson & Leon, we have had extensive experience working with clients who have suffered injuries in car accidents. As such, we have compiled a list of the top ten injuries you may face and how to proceed if you find yourself in such a situation:
- Whiplash: Whiplash, a common injury resulting from car accidents, occurs when the head suddenly jerks back and forth, leading to tension in the neck muscles. For instance, if a car is rear-ended, the driver’s head may snap backward, causing whiplash. Symptoms like neck discomfort, dizziness, headaches, and exhaustion may manifest after the accident. Seeking immediate medical attention is vital to address these symptoms effectively.
- Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): During car accidents, drivers and passengers can sustain traumatic brain injuries from severe blows to the head upon impact. For example, hitting the windshield or dashboard can lead to a TBI. These injuries can range from mild concussions to severe conditions like skull fractures and brain damage. Warning signs like confusion, dizziness, or loss of consciousness require immediate medical attention to prevent further complications.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: In the event of a car accident, spinal cord injuries can occur, causing paralysis, numbness, or difficulty with movement. A collision that forcefully compresses the spine, such as a rollover accident, can result in injuries. Seeking medical attention is crucial, even if the extent of the spinal cord damage is not immediately apparent.
- Chest Injuries: Severe car accidents can lead to various chest injuries, including broken ribs, collapsed lungs, and trauma to the heart or lungs. For instance, a high-speed collision may cause the chest to impact the steering wheel or the dashboard. Timely medical intervention is often necessary to manage and treat these injuries effectively.
- Fractures and Broken Bones: Car accidents frequently cause fractures and broken bones. For example, a side-impact collision can result in a broken arm or leg. Some fractures may heal with time, while others may require surgery or prolonged physical therapy. Secondary complications like nerve damage or muscle atrophy can arise from untreated broken bones.
- Internal Injuries: Internal organ damage might not be immediately evident, but it can be life-threatening. For instance, a car accident can cause internal bleeding, pain, or swelling in the abdomen. Even without external signs, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly to minimize the damage caused by internal injuries.
- Cuts, Lacerations, and Bruises: Contact with hard or sharp surfaces during a car accident can lead to cuts, lacerations, and bruises. For instance, broken glass or loose objects inside the vehicle can cause such injuries upon impact. Although not life-threatening, deep cuts or wounds near vital organs may require immediate medical attention.
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Some individuals may develop PTSD following a car accident. For example, a person involved in a severe collision might experience depression, anxiety, and flashbacks that affect their daily life. Seeking treatment and support is essential to cope with PTSD symptoms effectively.
- Emotional Distress: Emotional distress can impact an individual’s mental and emotional well-being long after a car accident, even if there are no visible physical injuries. For instance, witnessing a traumatic event or losing a loved one in an accident can lead to emotional distress. Professional counseling or therapy can be beneficial in managing this distress.
- Death: In the most tragic circumstances, car accidents can result in the death of drivers, passengers, or pedestrians. For instance, a high-speed collision can be fatal. In such cases, the affected families may be entitled to compensation for wrongful death.
The car accident attorneys at Wolfson & Leon defend the rights of people who were gravely injured in a Florida car accident. With offices in Miami, Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Fort Lauderdale and Hialeah, our lawyers can defend you and your rights anywhere in Florida. At no cost to you, we review your claim for its legal merit and explain what possible legal options may be available. If you have a claim you want to pursue against another person, corporation or insurance company, Wolfson & Leon takes care of all aspects of filing your case. Since our legal team works on a contingency fee basis, you only pay for our legal services when your case is settled. Find out how the Miami car accident injury accident lawyers can help you today by calling 305-285-1115 or 239-777-9954.