There were over 5 million car accident injuries that required medical help in 2021 alone. That’s a lot of accidents!
You’re likely to be injured in a car in your lifetime – but, if you are, it’s important to ensure you get what’s due to you in the aftermath.
Let’s go through the most common car injuries in Houston and how to get compensated if you’re suffering from one.
Whiplash
A whiplash car accident occurs when a person’s head and neck are forcefully thrown forward and then rapidly jerked backward, causing a sudden and violent movement of the head and neck. This can happen in car accidents when a vehicle is hit from behind, causing the person in the front vehicle to experience a sudden and forceful movement of their head and neck.
Whiplash injuries can result in symptoms including neck pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and even cognitive difficulties such as difficulty concentrating or remembering things.
Broken Bones
Broken bones are commonly suffered in car accidents, especially when there is a significant impact or high-speed collision. The force of the accident can cause bones to fracture or break.
The severity of a broken bone can vary. Simple fractures, where the skin remains intact, can usually be treated by immobilizing the affected area and allowing it to heal. More complex fractures, where the bone breaks through the skin or is shattered into multiple pieces, may require surgery to repair.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
In car accidents, TBIs can occur when a person’s head strikes a hard surface, such as the steering wheel or dashboard, or when the head is subjected to rapid acceleration or deceleration, causing the brain to move violently within the skull.
The symptoms of a TBI can vary depending on the severity of the injury but may include headaches, dizziness, confusion, memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and changes in mood or behavior. In severe cases, a TBI can result in long-term disability or even death.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Car accidents can also cause damage to the spinal cord. SCIs can occur in car accidents when the spine is subjected to a sudden, forceful impact.
The severity of an SCI can vary but can result in paralysis, loss of sensation, and chronic pain. Spinal cord injuries can be life-altering and may require lifelong treatment and rehabilitation.
What to Do for Car Accident Injury Compensation
If you’re suffering from a car accident injury in Houston, TX, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.
Your health is the most important thing after being in an accident. Get medical help after the accident, even if you don’t think you’ve been seriously injured.
Document the accident scene and any injuries you’ve sustained. Ask for the contact information of anyone who saw the accident.
A car accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and pursue compensation for your injuries. They can also work with insurance companies for you.
You may be able to file with your insurance or the other driver’s insurance company to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Keep track of all records related to your injury. This documentation can help you build a strong case for compensation.
Common Car Accident Injuries: Now You Know
Now that you know about these common car accident injuries, hopefully you know what to do if the worst happens.
If you need a car accident attorney in Houston, Texas, contact WestLoop Law today.