Top 5 Most Common Injuries in Car Accidents

Car accidents happen in a split second, but the impact can last much longer. Even minor collisions can leave people dealing with pain that affects their daily lives, making everyday activities challenging or impossible. While every accident is different, some injuries pop up more often than others. Knowing what to expect and what steps to take after a crash can make a significant difference in your physical and financial recovery. If you’ve suffered one of these common injuries in car accidents in Memphis, understanding your options can help you move forward.

Common Injuries in Car Accidents

Some injuries are more likely to occur in car crashes due to the force and mechanics involved. Here are the five most common injuries in car accidents:

Whiplash

Whiplash is one of the most frequently reported injuries after a crash, especially in rear-end collisions. The sudden jerking motion of the head and neck causes soft tissue damage, leading to pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. Whiplash symptoms after a crash may not appear immediately, so seeking medical attention is crucial, even if you initially feel fine. Left untreated, whiplash can result in chronic pain and long-term mobility issues. Treatment may involve physical therapy, pain management, and even chiropractic care to restore function and reduce discomfort.

Head Injuries

Head injuries from car accidents range from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBI), which can have life-changing effects. These injuries happen when a driver or passenger hits their head against the steering wheel, dashboard, window, or even an airbag. Even a relatively mild TBI can cause memory problems, dizziness, and long-term cognitive issues, while more severe cases may lead to permanent disability or require extensive rehabilitation. Since symptoms don’t always show up right away, getting a medical evaluation as soon as possible is crucial.

Broken Bones

The force of a crash can easily break bones, especially in your arms, legs, ribs, and collarbone. Some fractures are minor and just need a cast and rest, but others are more serious and might require surgery. Recovery depends on how severe the break is, and sometimes, complications like nerve damage make things even more challenging. In the most severe cases, people deal with long-term pain, trouble moving, or months of physical therapy. On top of that, medical bills and lost wages add up fast. If the crash was not your fault, you should not have to pay for someone else’s mistake.

Back and Spinal Cord Injuries

Back pain is one of the most common issues people deal with after a car accident, and it’s easy to understand why. The impact can put a lot of stress on your spine, causing problems like herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, or, in the worst cases, paralysis. Even if the injury seems minor at first, it can turn into long-term pain that requires physical therapy or ongoing medical treatment. A severe spinal cord injury can completely change how someone moves and lives their life, sometimes leading to permanent disability. Getting checked by a doctor right away is important, as is knowing your legal options.

Internal Injuries

Not all injuries are visible. Internal injuries from car crashes include organ damage, internal bleeding, and punctured lungs. These injuries can be life-threatening if not diagnosed quickly. Symptoms such as dizziness, deep bruising, or abdominal pain should never be ignored. Because internal injuries may not present obvious symptoms right away, it’s essential to see a doctor after an accident, even if you feel fine. Delayed treatment can result in serious complications and prolonged recovery.

Immediate Steps to Take After a Car Accident

The moments after a crash can be overwhelming, but taking the following steps at the scene can protect both your health and your legal rights:

• Check for Injuries – Assess yourself and others for signs of injury. If anyone is seriously hurt, call 911 immediately.
• Move to Safety – If possible, move your vehicle to a safe area to prevent further accidents.
• Call the Police – A police report provides crucial documentation of the accident.
• Seek Medical Attention – Even if you feel fine, some injuries take time to appear. Symptoms of delayed car accident injuries may not show up for days.
• Gather Evidence – Take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
• Exchange Information – Get contact and insurance details from the other driver.
• Contact a Lawyer – Speaking with an attorney can help protect your rights and ensure you get the support you need for your recovery.

Taking these steps right away can make a huge difference in your recovery and your ability to pursue compensation, so don’t wait to protect yourself.

Long-Term Recovery Options

Recovering from types of injuries in car collisions varies depending on the severity of the injury and the treatment required. Long-term recovery may include:

• Physical Therapy – Helps rebuild strength and mobility after fractures, back injuries, or whiplash, preventing long-term stiffness and improving movement
• Surgery – Some injuries require multiple procedures to restore function, such as repairing fractures, torn ligaments, or spinal damage
• Pain Management – Treatments include medication, injections, or alternative therapies like acupuncture or chiropractic care to reduce chronic pain
• Counseling – Supports recovery from PTSD, anxiety, or depression caused by the emotional trauma of a crash
• Occupational Therapy – Helps individuals regain skills for daily life, work, and independence after serious injuries

Every recovery journey is different, but the right treatment and support can make a significant impact on your healing and overall quality of life.

Contact a Memphis Car Accident Lawyer Today

Medical care is only part of the recovery process – getting fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering is just as important. A car accident can turn your life upside down, but you do not have to deal with the aftermath alone. If you or a loved one was injured in a crash, the Memphis car accident attorneys at Gatti, Keltner, Bienvenu & Montesi, PLC can help. Contact us online or call (901) 526-2126 today for a free consultation to discuss your situation and learn more about your next steps.