Despite new safety devices such as anti-lock brakes, three-point seat belts, and multiple airbags intended to help reduce the number and severity of injuries which result from a car accident, there is still the possibility of serious injuries to arises from any vehicular collision. While there are obvious injuries that can take place and are immediately noticeable, not all car accident injuries are quite so apparent. In order to protect yourself and your legal rights, you will want to be aware of the types of car accident injuries you may suffer during a collision, as well as the fact that not all injuries will be immediately evident in the hours and days after the crash.
Car Accident Injuries
Whiplash
One common car accident injury is whiplash, which is the result of your head snapping around due to the force of the accident. Whiplash can manifest itself as head or neck pain days or weeks after an auto accident as the muscles start to heal. Whiplash may also accompany a concussion, which is a head injury caused by the brain moving around or being damaged from a hard impact.
Concussion
A concussion is another type of injury which is not often immediately noticeable. Concussion symptoms can include memory loss, dilated pupils, or confusion that may not become apparent right away.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries are another type of problem that can arise from a car accident. Soft tissue injury refers to damage to ligaments or muscles throughout the body. Bruising and tenderness are immediate signs but you may have problems as the injuries heal as muscles start to tense up or relax from the impact and the adrenaline released to help keep you alert after the incident.
Bruised/Broken Bones
Bruised ribs and broken or fractured bones do not always immediately manifest themselves either. Broken and bruised ribs and bones will often only be able to be diagnosed through x-rays or other medical testing. If you experience shortness of breath or continued pain, these can be a sign of a bone fracture or injury. If you suspect that you have soft tissue or bone injuries, get to a doctor as soon as possible.
Getting Legal Help
You will want to contact a legal professional if you have been injured in a car accident. It is important to know that by accepting a settlement or offer from an insurance company, you normally must release your ability to pursue any further recourse for your injuries, so it is a good idea to wait until you are sure there are no lingering problems or car accident injuries which you were not aware of immediately after the accident before you accept any agreement that requires you to give up your right to recover further damages.
