Car accidents can happen in an instant, often leaving us feeling helpless and overwhelmed. The physical injuries suffered after a car accident can be traumatic for both the victim and their family. Each year in South Carolina, thousands of people suffer from severe trauma because of car wrecks, with many needing long-term medical attention for their wounds. However, if you know what to look out for regarding common car accident injuries, it may give you the tools needed to recognize warning signs of injury or provide the support that could help heal from current trauma faster.
Most Common Injuries from Car Wrecks in South Carolina
Car accidents are unfortunately very common in today’s world, and with them can come a variety of injuries. In South Carolina, the most common injuries resulting from car wrecks are:
Whiplash
Whiplash is an injury to the neck area caused by a sudden and violent back-and-forth jerking motion and can be particularly painful. It often occurs in car accidents but can also occur in some physical sports such as judo and boxing. Patients with whiplash can experience neck pain, shoulder pain, and stiffness, headaches, dizziness, tingling or numbness in the arms, blurred vision, or difficulty concentrating. Treatment for whiplash typically includes rest, medicines to relieve pain and reduce inflammation, physical therapy exercises to stretch the neck muscles and put them back into alignment if needed, as well as hot or cold packs to ease any discomfort.
Back Strains
Back strains caused by a car accident can be very painful, leading to issues ranging from minor discomfort to mobility limitations. These restrictions often cause frustration and financial stress due to medical bills or lost wages from missed work. Fortunately, those that receive back strains in a car accident do have options for relief of the symptoms, including regular exercise and physical therapy as well as medication and rest. With timely action and a diligent effort for treatment, victims of this type of injury can return to their everyday activities as quickly as possible.
Head Trauma
Head trauma is a serious issue that affects millions of people each year. While the most common head injuries are related to sports and athletics, even minor fender benders can cause serious and sometimes long-term symptoms such as dizziness or memory loss. People often suffer head injuries without even hitting their head. A sudden impact such as a car wreck can cause a person’s brain to shake around in their skull even if their head does not strike anything. It’s very important to seek medical attention immediately after any kind of head injury in order to detect any internal damage or potential cognitive difficulties that might stem from the injury. Figuring out how to prevent and mitigate further damage caused by head trauma is essential for maintaining mental health in both athletes and non-athletes alike.
Broken Bones
Broken bones are another common result from car accidents. It can often lead to weeks or even months of pain and recovery. The process typically involves a long healing period with physical therapy and sometimes even surgery.
Mental Injuries
Mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD often result from car accidents. The recovery process can be an incredibly difficult road full of pain and frustration resulting in financial and emotional distress. While mental injuries can be difficult to understand and diagnose, they are often worse than the physical injuries suffered in a car accident. If you suffer from any of these mental injuries as the result of a car accident, it is imperative that you seek professional treatment.
Spinal Injuries
Spinal Injuries such as bulging and herniated discs are another common injury caused by car accidents. Even relatively minor car accidents can put a lot of force on a person’s spine. Sudden jerks, such as those caused by car accidents, can cause bulging or even herniated discs. These injuries can have severe symptoms. Bulging or herniated discs may impact the spinal cord, causing pain, numbness, and tingling that radiates into the arms and legs. While the symptoms from bulging and herniated discs can sometimes resolve with conservative treatment such as physical therapy, chiropractic, or injections, surgery is often required to fix the problem.
It can be devastating to endure any type of injury due to a car wreck and it is important to know that if you have been injured due to the negligence of another driver, you may have legal rights for filing a claim for compensation for medical expenses and pain and suffering associated with the crash.
Tips For Avoiding Car Accident Injuries
To reduce the risk of sustaining injuries in a car accident, it is crucial to practice defensive driving techniques. Always keep your focus on the road and watch for any potential hazards. This means avoiding distractions such as cell phones, eating, or engaging in conversations with passengers. Additionally, leave plenty of space between you and other vehicles so that it can be easier to avoid an accident should someone else make a mistake. Lastly, use your signal lights when turning or changing lanes, as this will alert others on the road and make it easier to envision what you are intending to do. By following these simple tips, you can put yourself in a better position to stay safe while on the road.
Why You Need a South Carolina Car Accident Attorney
When you’ve been involved in a serious car accident in South Carolina, you may be facing costly medical expenses and vehicle repair bills, as well as emotional distress related to the trauma of the incident. In such cases, it’s beneficial to seek out representation from an experienced South Carolina car accident attorney who can provide clear advice and legal strategies to help ensure that you receive proper financial compensation for your losses. An experienced lawyer can also inform you of applicable laws so you can make knowledgeable decisions about how to proceed with your case. By hiring a lawyer, you often get better results than what you could achieve alone. By seeking representation and support, you can focus on healing from your injuries while they take care of the legalities associated with your case.
