3 Injuries to Be Aware of Following a Car Accident

A car accident at any speed can result in serious injuries. Certain types of injuries pose particular dangers because they may not become symptomatic until days or even weeks after the accident. You should always seek medical care as soon as possible after a car accident. You should seek medical treatment even if you feel fine. Getting medical attention can help identify a problem before it gets worse. It may even mean the difference between life and death.

1. Back and neck injuries

When your body experiences a violent jolt, you could suffer from a potentially debilitating injury. The pain that comes from strained muscle may be apparent right after the accident. That’s why it’s important to have things checked out as soon as you can.

Herniated discs are another serious injury that can occur in a car accident. The impact of a collision can cause the tissue between your vertebrae to poke out or rupture. This can put pressure on your spinal nerves and may even result in paralysis. Never ignore back pain following a vehicle crash.

2. Shoulder injuries

Seatbelts save countless lives. However, they often do so at the cost of injury. While an injury is always preferable to the alternative, the twisting motion that can accompany the impact can result in a restraint tearing your shoulder ligaments. This is a painful injury that often requires surgical repair.

3. Traumatic brain injuries

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is one of the most serious injuries you can suffer in a car accident. TBIs are dangerous because often people are unaware that they’ve suffered this type of injury. If a TBI goes untreated, it can be fatal. If you experience any kind of head trauma or violent shaking of the head, get checked out by a doctor. If you experience nausea, dizziness, or a feeling like you just want to go to bed, get medical help immediately.

Practice an abundance of caution after an accident

The immediate shock of an accident can cause your body to release adrenaline, which masks the feeling of pain. Always take a cautious approach and get medical attention as soon as you can.