Dealing With Serious Car Accident Injuries
While some car accidents can be more serious than others, even what appears on the surface to be a minor fender-bender can result in traumatic injuries. In some cases, due to the rush of adrenaline in the body, symptoms of serious injuries may not be readily apparent until days or even weeks later. This is one of the reasons it is so important to see a physician or head to the emergency room when you’ve been involved in an auto accident, even if you think you weren’t injured.
According to the Federal Highway Administration, serious injuries in car accidents meet the criteria that follow:
- Broken bones and limbs that become distorted
- Serious lacerations resulting in heavy blood loss or exposure of the muscle, tissue or bones
- Crush injuries
- Burn injuries of the second- or third-degree over 10 percent of the body or more
- Abdominal, chest or skull injuries beyond bruising and minor lacerations
- Paralysis
- Unconsciousness when found at the accident scene
What Is Considered Permanent Disfigurement?
Catastrophic injuries can lead to permanent disfigurement. Besides affecting the injured party physically, it can also cause embarrassment and psychological as well as emotional damage. Even after the injured party has recovered, they may be unable to work again because they may be viewed differently by others in social situations, by potential romantic partners and when interviewing for a job. Some of the types of permanent disfigurement include:
- Displacement of the spinal column
- Burn injuries
- Amputation
- Paralysis
- Damage to physical mobility
- Severe scarring
What Types of Car Accidents Result in the Worst Injuries?
Although car accidents can cause traumatic injuries, the following are known to be the most dangerous:
- Head-on collisions: A head-on crash often results in fatalities or severe injuries. This happens because the speeds of both vehicles combine upon impact. For example, if both vehicles are moving at 55 mph, the combined speed on impact would be 110 mph. Traumatic head injuries, multiple fractures and other serious harm are common in this type of collision, and they are usually caused by a drunk driver.
- Rollovers: Some vehicles such as SUVs, vans and light trucks are more apt to experience a rollover due to their high center of gravity. However, any vehicle can overturn if the conditions are right. If a seat belt breaks or the airbags don’t deploy during a rollover, it can increase the severity of injuries. Another added danger is roof crush, a fault by the manufacturer, which reduces the survivability space inside the vehicle. If roof crush occurs, the manufacturer may be held responsible. Common injuries in a rollover include spinal cord damage and traumatic brain injuries.
- T-bone accidents: A broadside accident can cause traumatic injuries, especially in older vehicles because they are not equipped with side airbags. Fractured bones and spinal cord trauma are more likely in these types of collisions.
Diaz Law Firm: Car Accident Lawyers
Diaz Law Firm offers experienced car accident attorneys in Madison, Mississippi, who can assist those who have been injured in auto collisions by a negligent driver or other entity. We are available online or by phone at 800-459-2222. Our team is available to speak with you about your potential case. As a contingency fee firm, we do not charge you unless we successfully settle your case.