California car accidents can happen at any moment. With approximately 14 million registered vehicles on the Golden State’s public roads, unfortunately, there are plenty of opportunities for an accident to happen. While many car accidents only leave behind dented fenders and inconvenience, sometimes they do result in bodily harm. There are common types of injuries from car accidents, some being more severe than others.
San Diego County folks who’ve been injured by a negligent driver can get legal assistance from a car accident lawyer in Escondido. Work with a local lawyer who can help you get the best possible compensation while you tend to your medical treatment and recovery.
7 Types of Commonly Sustained Injuries in California Car Crashes
Car accidents almost always involve some type of injury. Depending on the severity of the crash, they can be anywhere from almost unnoticeable to those that are terrifyingly apparent. Anyone involved in a car crash, no matter how minor, should seek prompt medical attention. Some injuries may not make themselves known for several days, so it’s important to get checked out by a medical professional as soon as possible.
Victims of a car crash caused by another driver’s careless act could cause you great harm. You could receive compensation for your injuries. Any delay in seeking medical care and treatment may come back to bite you when filing your claim. Here’s a look at some of the types of injuries that are common in all kinds of car collisions.
Bruises
On the low end of the injury severity scale are minor bruises. These are usually sustained around the areas a seatbelt touches. Even a minor crash can quickly force your body forward, and a quick impact against the seatbelt can leave your chest and shoulder bruised and tender. Bruises like these rarely require medical treatment.
Whiplash
A common California car crash condition is whiplash. This occurs when upon impact, the victim’s head moves violently back and forth, causing damage to the muscles and ligaments of the neck. This painful injury may not be noticed until days after an accident. Whiplash is often accompanied by:
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Headaches at the base of the skull
- Limited range of head motion
- Shoulder pain and tenderness
- Numbness in arms and/or hands
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness
Concussion
More severe car collision impacts can cause a driver and their passengers to hit their head on a hard object causing a concussion. This type of head injury is considered a TBI (traumatic brain injury) and although many victims make a fast and full recovery, others can experience the complications of Post-Concussive Syndrome. Common symptoms of a concussion can include:
- Nausea
- Headache
- Vomiting
- Ringing in the ears
- Dizziness
- Blurry vision
- Confusion
Broken Bones
It’s not uncommon for bones to be broken due to the violent impact of another vehicle. The most common types of bone fractures due to car accidents are:
- Arm
- Wrist
- Tibia/Fibula
- Clavicle
- Ribs
- Spinal
- Facial
Internal Injuries
Those involved in a high-speed crash often suffer from internal injuries. These can happen from air-bag deployment or being ejected from the vehicle. Fractured ribs can easily cause serious internal injuries like piercing large blood vessels or even the lungs. Internal injuries are an extremely dangerous condition and need to be addressed by a doctor or surgeon as soon as possible. Possible signs of internal injuries can include:
- Abdominal pain
- Severe bruising
- Coughing up blood
- Difficulty breathing
- Pale and clammy skin
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
Back Injuries
Spinal cord and back injuries are common to all types of car accidents. These can happen from the sheer impact of a collision. Sprains, fractures, and ruptured discs can be not only painful, but can leave a victim with a severe lifelong disability. Symptoms of back injuries include:
- Back muscle spasms
- Burning or searing lower back or buttocks pain
- Back stiffness and limited range of movement
- Numbness or tingling in arms, legs, fingers, or toes
- Discomfort when walking, standing, or transitioning between movements
- Sharp back pain when standing up or sitting down
PTSD
A debilitating car accident injury that can’t be seen with the naked eye is post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD. A severe car accident can leave victims feeling shaken for a day or two, but for some, it can cause a lifetime of mental anguish. Although not a physical injury, victims suffering from accident-related PTSD and other emotional issues like anxiety or depression can be compensated for them. Symptoms of PTSD after a car accident are:
- Intrusive thoughts about the accident
- Nightmares reliving the crash
- Refusal or reluctance to drive or get into a motor vehicle
Common Car Accident Injuries in California Car Accidents Explained
Almost everyone will be involved in a car accident at least once during their lifetime. Hopefully, it’ll be a minor fender bender with no bodily harm. However, most car accidents, no matter how minor, will result in bodily injury. Even low-impact crashes can create bruises, whiplash, and broken bones. More severe impacts can result in more severe injuries.
If you’ve been harmed by an accident that wasn’t your fault, you’re probably entitled to receive compensation. To obtain the best possible settlement that leaves no stone unturned, turn to an experienced personal injury attorney who can evaluate your case and determine how to proceed.
