A car accident can cause injuries that range from minor to catastrophic depending on a multitude of factors including speed, position in the car, collision object, road conditions and more. Many people are lucky to escape without injury, but if you are injured it’s most likely to be one of the following:
The 6 Most Common Car Accident Injuries
1. Head Injuries
Head injuries are not only very common but can also be the most serious. Drivers and passengers tend to hit their head against the steering wheel, dashboard or window after impact. This impact can cause traumatic brain injuries, cognitive problems, concussions and skull fractures.
2. Neck Injuries
Neck injuries are quite common, especially whiplash, but they can be very serious, depending on the accident, which can lead to cervical radiculopathy and disc injury.
3. Back Injuries
Back injuries can sometimes take time to show up, so it’s always important to get thorough check-ups after an accident. Common injuries include lumbar radiculopathy, lumbar spine and thoracic spine injury.
4. Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries are caused when tissues jerk and tear which happens often in motor vehicle accidents. This includes damage to ligaments, muscles and tendons.
5. Chest Injuries
Seat belts and airbags are built-in cars to save your life, but they can also cause broken ribs, collapsed lungs or internal bleeding.
6. Psychological Injuries
Motor vehicle accidents are traumatic experiences and can lead to passengers and drivers developing emotional distress, fear of driving and PTSD.
Important
Insurance Coverage: Depending on the extent of injury and policy terms, motor accident disability is usually covered by your Income Protection, TPD, or sickness and accident insurance.
Delayed Symptoms: Some injuries, particularly back injuries, can take time to show up. Always get thorough medical check-ups after an accident.
If you are involved in a motor vehicle accident, understanding these common injuries can help you seek appropriate medical attention and legal advice to protect your rights and recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common injuries in a car accident?
Head injuries, neck injuries, back injuries, soft tissue injuries, chest injuries and psychological injuries. Head injuries are both very common and potentially the most serious.
Can a car accident injury show up days later?
Yes. Back injuries in particular can take time to show up, so it is important to get a thorough medical check-up after an accident even if you feel fine.
Is whiplash a serious injury?
Neck injuries such as whiplash are common, but depending on the accident they can be very serious and can lead to cervical radiculopathy and disc injury.
Can seat belts and airbags cause injuries?
Seat belts and airbags are built into cars to save your life, but they can also cause broken ribs, collapsed lungs or internal bleeding.
Is psychological harm an injury after a car accident?
Yes. Motor vehicle accidents are traumatic and can lead drivers and passengers to develop emotional distress, a fear of driving and PTSD.
Will my insurance cover disability after a motor accident?
Depending on the extent of the injury and the policy terms, motor accident disability is usually covered by income protection, TPD, or sickness and accident insurance.