Most Common Car Accident Injuries

Each year, more than 20 million people are injured in car accidents. The types of injuries that these victims experience range considerably. Some are little more than a discomfort, while others are life-changing or even permanently disabling. While there are many different types of car accident injuries, some injuries occur more commonly than others.

Some of the most common car accident injuries may seem obvious, but others may surprise you. The most common injuries include:

· Head Injuries: Head injuries range from mild to severe, and some are even life-threatening. In minor car accidents, a bump on the head can cause bruising or pain. More severe accidents can result in concussions or brain tissue damage.

· Chest Injuries: Chest injuries are a widespread occurrence in car accidents, especially when the victim is wearing a seat belt. Bruising or contusions are common injuries, but more severe injuries can occur. More severe chest injuries include broken bones or damage to internal structures or organs.  

· Broken Bones: When force is applied to a bone, it can fracture or break completely. Some fractures or breaks even break through the skin.

· Spinal Cord Injuries: Spinal cord injuries are incredibly common after car accidents. Even if you don’t initially feel pain or discomfort, it is vital to have a doctor make sure you have not injured your spine. These injuries can take days or weeks to become apparent.

· Whiplash: Whiplash occurs when the neck is forced in a rapid back-and-forth movement. Most often, whiplash occurs in rear-end accidents. Many people don’t experience pain from whiplash until a day or two after the accident.

· Psychological Injuries: Though you cannot see psychological injuries, they are a very real and common car accident consequence. People involved in a car accident may experience trauma or anxiety significantly if they or someone else is injured.   

These are just some examples of the types of car accident injuries that are commonly reported. Take responsibility to get medical attention after any car accident injury, even if you think it is just a minor injury.