The Texas Department of State Health Services estimates that in 2021, over 550,000 motor vehicle crashes occurred in the state. Car accidents are traumatic events that can have devastating consequences. They can lead to pain, loss of mobility and a wide range of injuries. Some of these effects may not be immediately obvious until much later. Therefore, understanding common injuries sustained in a car accident, knowing when to seek medical attention and recognizing important signs and symptoms are essential for all drivers.
Common Injuries Following A Car Accident
Car accidents can result in various injuries, ranging from minor cuts and bruises to more severe trauma. The type of injuries experienced depends on the severity of the incident, the mechanism of injury and how the body was affected. Here are some of the most frequent injuries experienced in a car accident.
Broken Bones
Fractures and broken bones are common in severe car accidents. An impact can cause bones to break in various body parts, including the arms, legs, ribs and collarbone. The severity of these injuries can range from simple fractures to complex breaks that require surgical intervention.
Cuts and Bruises
Cuts and bruises are very frequent in car accidents, often resulting from broken glass, impact on the steering wheel, dashboard, or flying debris. While many cuts and bruises are superficial, some can be more severe, requiring stitches or other medical treatment.
Whiplash
Whiplash is one of the most common injuries in car accidents, especially rear-end collisions. It occurs when the neck is forcefully and quickly whipped back and forth, straining or spraining the neck muscles and ligaments. Whiplash may not be immediately apparent and can develop over the hours or days following the accident.
Head Injuries
Head injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), are serious concerns in car accidents. These injuries may occur when the head strikes a hard surface or from the violent jolt of an accident. Head injuries are extremely serious and always need to be dealt with promptly.
Internal trauma
Internal injuries, such as organ damage or internal bleeding, can result from blunt force trauma sustained in a car accident. Internal injuries may not be immediately visible but can be life-threatening if left untreated.
When To Seek Medical Advice
Medical advice should always be sought in the immediate aftermath of a car accident. However, it is not necessarily the only time it should be done. Additional medical advice should be sought if symptoms persist in the weeks or months following an accident. In general, seek medical assistance if one or more of the following applies to your situation:
Immediately After the Accident
After being involved in a car accident, patients must seek medical advice as soon as possible, especially if they experience any of the following:
- Visible Injuries – If there are any visible injuries, such as cuts, bruises, or broken bones, immediate medical attention is necessary.
- Severe Pain – If experiencing severe pain in any part of the body, seek emergency medical care immediately.
- Loss of Consciousness or Disorientation—If you experience a loss of consciousness, even briefly, or any disorientation, confusion, or dizziness, seek medical help right away. These could be signs of a concussion or other serious injuries.
Within the First 24 Hours
Delayed Symptoms—Some injuries, like whiplash or internal injuries, might not show immediate symptoms. If you experience increasing pain, swelling, or any other new symptoms within the first 24 hours of an accident, it is important to get checked by a doctor immediately.
Within The Next Few Days – Weeks
If one or more of the following symptoms occur in the days or weeks following a car accident, visit your nearest emergency room.
- Headaches, dizziness, or vision changes – These could indicate a concussion or other head injuries. Even if symptoms appear days after the accident, medical evaluation is necessary.
- Neck or back pain – Persistent or worsening pain in the neck or back can indicate whiplash, spinal injuries, or other musculoskeletal issues.
- Abdominal pain or swelling – This could be a sign of internal bleeding or injuries to internal organs and requires immediate medical attention.
- Numbness or tingling – These symptoms could indicate nerve damage or other serious conditions.
The Importance of Seeking Immediate Medical Attention
It’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention following an accident, even if you don’t think you’ve been seriously injured. Here are some important reasons to seek help:
- Early medical attention means early treatment and early diagnosis. Broken bones can be splinted, cuts and bruises can be bandaged, and diagnostic scans can help detect the presence of internal injuries if suspected.
- Early medical attention allows for timely treatment and better outcomes. Delaying medical attention can lead to worsening injuries and longer recovery times.
- Long-term injuries that are the direct result of a car accident can develop weeks or months following an accident. Early medical intervention may help reduce the risk and severity of such injuries.
- Seeking medical attention immediately after an accident provides documentation of your injuries for potential insurance claims. This documentation is essential for compensation for medical expenses and other damages related to the accident.
Being aware of common injuries from car accidents, knowing when to seek medical attention and recognizing important signs and symptoms are crucial for Houston drivers. These skills can protect their health and well-being in the aftermath of an accident.
24 Hour Emergency Room in Houston
Each Life Savers Houston Emergency Room location is equipped to handle life threatening conditions quickly. Your emergency or concern is our priority! Life Savers 24 Hour Emergency Room is your Houston Emergeny Room for immediate definite care. Do not hesitate to call us today or stop by one of our 24 hour houston ER locations: Willowbrook Emergency Room, Heights Emergency Room, or Summerwood Emergency Room.
