Common Injuries in Car Accidents
Car accidents can lead to a wide range of injuries, which vary greatly in severity depending on the circumstances of the crash, such as the speed of the vehicles, the type of collision, and whether occupants were wearing seat belts.
Here are some of the most commonly sustained injuries in car accidents, each of which can have a significant impact on the lives of victims and their families:
- Whiplash: This neck injury is particularly common in rear-end collisions. It occurs when the head is suddenly jerked forward and then backward, stretching the neck muscles and ligaments beyond their normal range.
- Broken Bones: The force of a car accident can easily break bones. Common fractures in car accidents include broken ribs, arms, legs, and hips. Serious impacts can lead to compound fractures that require surgical intervention.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): TBIs can occur even with the use of seat belts and airbags. They range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, affecting cognitive functions, memory, coordination, and emotional control.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: These injuries can be particularly devastating, potentially leading to partial or complete paralysis. Damage to the spinal cord can result in loss of sensation and function below the level of injury.
- Lacerations & Burns: Broken glass, metal fragments, and fires following a collision can cause severe cuts and burns. These injuries may require stitches and could lead to significant scarring or disfigurement.
- Internal Injuries: The impact can cause internal organs to be bruised or damaged. Common internal injuries include internal bleeding, punctured lungs, and ruptured spleens, which require immediate medical attention.
- Psychological Injuries: The trauma of a car accident can also lead to psychological issues, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and phobias, particularly of driving or riding in cars.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Besides whiplash, other soft tissue injuries include sprains, strains, and contusions, which can cause significant pain and discomfort. These injuries may not be immediately apparent post-accident.
San Antonio Car Accident Statistics
In 2022, San Antonio saw 39,355 auto accidents, causing a total of 9,949 injuries and 199 deaths. This staggering number is influenced by the high volume of traffic, including both local commuting and through traffic from other parts of Texas and beyond. Major highways and intersections in San Antonio, such as the intersections along I-35 and Loop 1604, are common sites for collisions. These areas are known for heavy traffic flows and can be hotspots for rear-end collisions, side-swipes, and multi-car pile-ups. The injuries resulting from these accidents range from minor cuts and bruises to severe, life-altering conditions such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and fatal injuries. Each year, emergency rooms in San Antonio see thousands of patients who suffer from car accident-related injuries.
Seek Medical Attention After a Car Accident
Even if no injuries are immediately apparent, it’s especially important to get medical attention after a car accident. Some injuries, such as internal bleeding, may not show symptoms right away but can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. A thorough medical evaluation can identify hidden injuries, provide a path to recovery, and support legal claims.
Contact Our San Antonio Car Accident Lawyers Today: (888) 493-1629
If you have been involved in a car accident in San Antonio, don't face the challenges alone. Contact our experienced San Antonio car accident attorneys today for a free consultation. Arnold & Itkin’s team is here to help you every step of the way, ensuring that you receive the compensation and support you need to move forward.
Call us now at (888) 493-1629 to start on the path to recovery.
