Common Injuries Passengers Sustain in a Car Accident

Car accidents can have devastating effects not only on the drivers but also on passengers traveling in the vehicle. Passengers are often more vulnerable to a variety of injuries due to their position and the dynamics of the collision. Understanding the types of injuries commonly sustained can help victims seek appropriate medical treatment and legal assistance from a car accident lawyer in Fresno. Some of the most common injuries include the following:

Whiplash and Neck Injuries

Whiplash is a prevalent injury in rear-end collisions, resulting from the sudden back-and-forth motion of the neck. Symptoms include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and limited mobility, which can persist beyond the initial healing period. If untreated, whiplash may lead to chronic pain, necessitating long-term physical therapy to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Head and Brain Injuries

Head and brain injuries are severe consequences of car accidents, with concussions often occurring when the head strikes a hard surface like the dashboard or window. More seriously, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can lead to cognitive deficits, memory problems, and irreversible brain damage. Symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, blurred vision, and loss of consciousness require immediate medical attention to mitigate long-term effects.

Spinal Cord and Back Injuries

High-impact collisions can result in herniated discs and other back injuries that significantly impair mobility. Spinal cord injuries are among the most severe, potentially causing paralysis or reduced motor function. Recovery may require surgery, physical therapy, and extensive rehabilitation to regain movement and manage pain.

Broken Bones and Fractures

Car accidents often cause fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, and collarbones due to the force of impact. The severity of these fractures varies, from simple breaks to complex fractures necessitating surgical intervention and lengthy recovery. These injuries can severely restrict mobility, impacting the ability to work and perform daily activities during recovery.

Internal Injuries

Internal injuries, including internal bleeding, occur from blunt force trauma. Organ damage to the liver, kidneys, lungs, or spleen can be life-threatening if undiagnosed. Prompt medical evaluation is crucial to identify and treat these injuries early to prevent severe health consequences.

Facial Injuries

Facial injuries can arise from contact with broken glass, debris, or airbags. Cuts, lacerations, and dental damage like broken teeth or jaw fractures are common, while severe cases may require reconstructive surgery to address disfigurement and restore facial structure.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries, such as strains and sprains, affect muscles, tendons, and ligaments, predominantly in the neck, back, and limbs. Bruising and contusions from seatbelts or airbags are also common. Rehabilitation through physical therapy is often essential to regain movement and prevent long-term disability.

Psychological Injuries

Psychological injuries like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can follow car accidents, particularly those that are severe. Anxiety and depression, manifesting as fear of driving or flashbacks, need to be addressed through counseling and therapy to promote complete recovery alongside physical healing. If you’ve been injured in a car accident as a passenger, it’s important to seek medical attention and obtain the compensation you’re entitled to. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a Fresno injury attorney.