Car accidents have the potential to cause serious damage, lasting injuries, and even death. While no two collisions are the same, various types of injuries are common in car accidents. If you were injured in a crash, contact a Middlesex County auto accident attorney to learn more about your legal rights and options.
What Factors Affect the Severity of a Car Accident Injury?
The details of the car accident can impact the type of injury you sustain and the severity of the damage. The following factors and more play a role in the outcome of your accident and injury.
- Seatbelts: Whether or not you are wearing a seatbelt will impact the extent of your injuries. Your seatbelt can reduce your risk of serious injury by about 50% according to studies conducted by the CDC.
- Speed: In general, the faster each car is traveling at the time of impact, the more serious the injuries sustained will be. Higher speeds mean a more significant impact. Passengers could hit the interior of the car more aggressively or even be thrown from the car.
- Airbags: Whether or not the airbags deployed can affect the severity of your injuries as well. Airbags can help reduce the impact on your upper body and head, reducing serious injuries and risk of death.
- Location of impact: Where your vehicle was struck can also affect the type of injury you sustain and its severity. For example, rear-end accidents commonly result in whiplash or neck strain because the impact came from the back of the car and forced the passengers’ heads forward and back suddenly.
- Your position in the vehicle: The seat you are sitting in can also impact your injuries. Drivers naturally direct the vehicle to protect themselves in the event of a crash, so the passenger side is more at risk. The passenger side is also more exposed during left turns. Additionally, if your feet are up on the dashboard or you are turned around it could result in more severe injuries.
What Are the Most Common Types of Injuries in a Car Accident?
As established, the above factors and more can impact the type of injury you suffer during a car crash and its severity level. However, there is no telling what type of injury will be sustained in every accident, as all situations are unique.
Below are some of the most common types of injuries individuals will sustain during an auto collision.
- Head and back injuries: Concussions, TBIs, spinal cord injuries
- Neck and chest injuries: Whiplash, strains, broken ribs
- Facial injuries: Cuts, lacerations, bruising, eye damage
- Soft tissue injuries: Sprains, strains, bruising
- Arm and leg injuries: Fractures, broken bones, dislocations, loss of limbs
- Organ injuries: Internal bleeding, internal damage
- Mental ailments: PTSD, sleep disorders, depression, anxiety
The above and more can result from an auto accident. With the help of a legal professional, you can file a claim or lawsuit in pursuit of compensation for your related expenses. Speak with a skilled attorney today for more information.
