Car accidents can be traumatic experiences and cause significant health problems. In 2022, it was estimated that medical costs from car accidents were around 430 billion dollars. While some accidents leave victims with visible injuries and emotional scars, some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Here are five hidden injuries to watch for after a car accident:
Whiplash:
Whiplash is a common yet frequently underestimated injury that results from the rapid back-and-forth motion of the head and neck during a collision. Symptoms include neck pain, headaches, stiffness, loss of range of motion, trouble sleeping, and fatigue. However, some symptoms may not manifest until 24 to 48 hours after the collision. These symptoms may impact your quality of life and activities of daily living, such as going to work, cooking, and cleaning. It’s crucial to monitor for delayed onset and seek medical attention to prevent long-term complications, as symptoms can linger for two to three months and are a common cause of chronic disability.
Concussions:
The rapid back-and-forth movement of the head during a collision also causes the brain to jolt within the skull, leading to a concussion. Initial symptoms may include dizziness, confusion, and headaches lasting up to ten days. Symptoms such as memory loss and difficulty concentrating may not be evident until weeks later. These symptoms can alter your lifestyle, last longer than expected, and can develop into persistent “post-concussion syndrome.” It’s essential to seek medical evaluation for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Airbag injuries:
Airbags are crucial safety devices that protect vehicle occupants during a collision; however, airbag deployment can also cause injuries such as facial lacerations, bruises, and swelling. They can also cause eye damage, burns, fractures, or dislocated bones in the hands, wrists, and arms from having your upper extremities near the deploying airbag. These injuries may not be immediately apparent until further symptoms develop and radiological imaging is obtained.
Back injuries – Herniated or bulging discs:
Back injuries are a common consequence of car accidents, again due to the rapid back-and-forth motion of the spinal column during a collision. The impact from the other vehicle can strain the spinal column’s muscles, ligaments, tendons, and nerves. Immediate symptoms range from pain and reduced range of motion, while other more severe symptoms include radiating pain, numbness, and tingling. Herniated or bulging disc symptoms may not be apparent until weeks or months later. The treatment plan for these types of injuries includes physical therapy, medication, and radiologic imaging. Individuals involved in car accidents must seek prompt medical attention, even if they initially feel no pain. Early diagnosis and recovery prevent long-term complications, leading to a speedy recovery.
Soft tissue injuries:
A soft tissue injury refers to damage or trauma to the soft and connecting tissues in the body, excluding bones. Soft tissues include the muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, and blood vessels. These injuries can appear after sudden trauma, such as a car accident.
Common soft tissue injuries include:
- Contusions (bruises)
- Sprains (stretched or torn ligament)
- Strains (stretched or torn muscle)
- Tendonitis (inflammation of the tendon)
- Bursitis (inflamed bursae, which are fluid-filled sacs that cushion the space between the bones)
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident is physically and emotionally challenging. The Ghuneim Law Firm empowers you to concentrate on your recovery by leaving the legal complexities to us. Ease the burden of stress and allow us to guide you through the process to ensure you receive the maximum compensation and help with your injuries.
Our legal representation extends to the residents in the Pasadena-Houston Metro area. Call us today at 281-487-8929.
References:
- Bragg KJ, Varacallo M. Cervical Sprain. [Updated 2023 Aug 14]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK541016/
- Texas Department of Transportation. (2022a). Texas Motor Vehicle Traffic Crash Facts. Texas Motor Vehicle Traffic Crash Facts – Calendar Year 2022. https://ftp.txdot.gov/pub/txdot-info/trf/crash_statistics/2022/01.pdf