Types of Car Accident Injuries; What Doctors to See

There are in the region of 6 million car accidents every year in the United States, resulting in around 3 million injuries. Two-thirds of people injured in road traffic accidents are left with permanent car accident injuries, while approximately 30,000 people, unfortunately, lose their lives on American roads each year.

The main causes of car accidents include speeding, drunk driving, inexperienced drivers, distracted driving, inclement weather, and drivers ignoring the rules of the road. There are also many different types of car accident injuries, which can range from minor to catastrophic.

In this blog post, we will highlight some of the most common injuries that people sustain following a car accident. We will also advise on what doctors people should see in order to treat the specific injury they have sustained. Let’s get started.

Cuts and Scrapes

While there is no doubt that cuts and scrapes can be serious, these rank as one of the more minor injuries that people can sustain in a car accident. However, they are one of the most common.

There are many reasons why people may sustain cuts and scrapes as a result of a car accident. For example, loose objects within the vehicle may turn into projectiles that can pierce or cut the skin during the impact. Items such as purses, glasses, mobile phones, and dash-mounted GPS systems can all result in injuries.

More serious cuts may require stitches, which a local GP or an A&E doctor can perform.

Soft Tissue Injuries

A soft tissue injury refers to sprains, bruises, muscle contusions, and other damage to the soft tissues in the body. Injuries to the body’s connective tissue, including tendons, ligaments, and muscles, are common as a result of car accidents.

Another extremely common soft tissue injury is whiplash, which affects the upper back and neck. Whiplash occurs when the ligaments and muscles in the back are stretched due to sudden movements of the neck and head. This kind of movement is very common during a car accident.

It is recommended that you see an orthopedic doctor following a soft tissue injury. Orthopedic doctors/surgeons specialize in the musculoskeletal system.

Chest Injuries

Another common injury that people sustain during car accidents is a chest injury. These injuries can occur when the driver collides at speed with the steering wheel. As well as the steering wheel, dashboards and seatbelts can also result in chest injuries.

Injuries here range from bruising to internal injuries and broken ribs. Again, it is recommended that you see an orthopedic doctor for injuries related to the musculoskeletal system. These injuries can be serious and often emergency treatment is required.

Head Injuries

One of the most serious types of car accident injuries is head injuries. While they can be relatively minor, they can also result in serious and life-changing injuries. During a collision, a car may stop suddenly or quickly change direction, which can cause the heads of drivers and occupants to move in unnatural and sudden ways.

Examples of head injuries include:

• Muscles strains and sprains
• Concussion
• Cuts and scrapes
• Bruising and tear of brain tissue
• Permanent brain damage

Depending on the severity of the issue, medical professionals will determine which specialist you should seek treatment from. Many head injuries sustained as a result of a car accident will require emergency treatment.

Leg and Arm Injuries

Our limbs are also at risk of injury during the impact of a car accident. For example, during a side impact, passengers may have their legs and arms thrown against the door. Rear collisions may result in passengers’ knees colliding with the seat or dashboard in front of them.

Common injuries here include sprains, bruises, scrapes, and broken bones. In the case of a broken bone, surgery may be required and plaster casts may be applied to help during the recovery phase.

For many of the above injuries, the severity of the injury may not be immediately noticeable. People often experience shock following a car accident and it is only later on that they begin to notice pain. This is why it is always important to get a check-up following an accident, even if you feel okay.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Not all car accident injuries are visible or physical. The mental and emotional toll of a car accident can be serious and have a lasting effect.

Post-traumatic stress disorder can have a major impact on a person’s overall happiness and quality of life. Everyday activities can become difficult to perform and people’s normal routines can be thrown out of sync.

If you are suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder as a result of a car accident, it is advised that you speak to a psychologist or psychiatrist. These are doctors who will have the necessary experience in helping people with mental illnesses.

Types of Car Accident Injuries to Be Aware Of

It is important that you see a doctor after a car accident, even if you feel fine. Injuries sustained during car accidents can be life-changing and you should seek professional care as soon as possible.

Another important step to take is to schedule an appointment with an experienced car accident attorney. They will help you understand your options in terms of seeking justice and compensation from the at-fault party. The aftermath of a car accident can be a confusing time; experienced attorneys can help you to navigate this difficult time.

If you have been involved in a car accident, speak to a car accident lawyer at Alpha Accident Lawyers.