From whiplash to sprain, fractures and mental anguish, car accidents cause substantial damage to its drivers and passengers. It’s important to know that you may not be immediately aware of the severity and type of your injuries while at the scene of the collision. If something feels unusual or different, even minor symptoms, have the emergency personnel examine and treat you. If you do not get an evaluation at the scene, it is advised that you visit your doctor as soon as possible or head to the emergency room. Receiving medical attention without delay gives you the best odds at recovery without unnecessary complications.
Whiplash
Whiplash is one of the most common injuries people have from a car accident. This condition stems from the neck quickly snapping backward or forward past its normal extension. This motion and weight of the head can cause strain on the neck muscles. Many people recover from whiplash within a few weeks, but it can take much longer than that for others. As a car accident lawyer explains, whiplash can range from mild to severe, depending on the factors of the collision.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
The brain is responsible for allowing us to perform everyday functions. A traumatic brain injury can interfere with this if brain cells are damaged. TBI can have effects that are long-lasting and may not be easy to detect particularly if there are no external wounds. Symptoms of traumatic brain injuries can include persistent headache, loss of consciousness, seizures or convulsions, pupil dilation, clear fluid draining from ears or nose, and changes in personality or sleeping habits.
Spinal Cord Injuries
You may think that you would notice a spinal cord injury easily, but this is not always the case. Partial or total paralysis could happen right away, but it can take time before this develops. Spinal cord injuries can be complete or incomplete, the former meaning that there is lack of feeling below the injury area. An incomplete spinal cord injury means that there is some sensation below the injury site.
Mental Anguish
Car accidents can be stressful and painful. Even though the incident itself only lasts a few seconds, the impacts can be devastating in the long term. Dealing with injuries, insurance companies, and work can be overwhelming. Those who were injured by a careless driver may turn to a personal injury law firm, similar to Norris Injury Law, for help getting a fair settlement for their damages and losses. Unfortunately, even insurance companies are for profit and frequently find ways to deny a claimant the compensation they need.
Car accidents can result in physical and mental challenges that require urgent medical care. But not all injuries are obvious, so being evaluated by the emergency personnel or doctor shortly after the incident is always recommended. Anyone who is having trouble with their accident claim or wants to sue the at-fault driver can get support from a lawyer near them. It’s better to not delay in seeking injury treatment, compared to waiting too long and causing additional complications.
