Traffic accidents are among the leading causes of serious injuries in communities all across the United States. According to data provided by the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, approximately 50,000 people are hurt in collisions in our state on an annual basis.
These injuries vary dramatically—from relatively modest bumps and bruises to catastrophic and even life-threatening harm. In this article, our Washington car accident lawyers highlight some of the most common injuries that are reported in motor vehicle accidents.
Seven of the Most Common Car Accident Injuries
Cuts/Lacerations
From broken windshields to loose objects, there are many ways to get a deep, potentially devastating laceration in a car accident. All cuts that penetrate the skin should be evaluated by a medical professional. In the worst cases, stitches or even more intensive medical intervention may be required to stop the bleeding and prevent permanent scarring. Though, even seemingly minor lacerations can still be a very serious matter. Should an infection develop, it could result in hospitalization, or worse.
Soft Tissue Damage (Whiplash)
Soft tissue damage is one of the most common (and challenging) car accident injuries to deal with. You may be familiar with the term whiplash. It is a notoriously painful injury that occurs when a person’s neck is “whipped” back and forth by extreme force. Not only does whiplash hurt, but it can be difficult to treat and recover from. Further, as there is not a definitive medical test that can be used to prove whiplash, the big insurance companies are reluctant to pay out claims. If you or your loved one suffered whiplash in an accident, our Washington auto accident attorneys can help you get the full and fair financial compensation that you rightfully deserve.
Back Injuries
If you have ever dealt with any type of back injury or back pain, you understand how frustrating and debilitating it can be. Car accident-related back injuries often require long-term physical therapy and rehabilitative care. In the more severe cases, a back injury may keep you off of the job for an extended period of time. Financial compensation is available for auto accident victims who need treatment and support for their back injury.
Burn Injuries
Burn injuries are both common and difficult to treat. These injuries vary widely in their cause and severity. The least serious, a first degree burn, occurs when only the outer layer of the skin is damaged. Emergency medical attention may not be needed. However, with the most serious type of burn, a third degree burn, extensive medical treatment will be required. In fact, surgical operations may be needed to save skin tissue and limit permanent disfigurement.
Broken Bones
Broken and fractured bones are relatively common in high-impact motor vehicle collisions. While any bone in the human body is at risk of being fractured in a crash, the most common breaks are of the arms and the legs. Beyond that, broken ribs are also a major cause of concern. Not only is a broken rib painful, but there is also a risk of internal organ damage. All broken bones require professional medical treatment.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
Head injuries should always be taken seriously. In a crash, occupants may suffer a concussion or TBI after hitting their head on the steering wheel, dashboard, back of a seat, or simply because of the overwhelming force of the impact. If you or your loved one is showing signs of a concussion, you need to see a doctor right away. These injuries often occur with a delayed onset. You may not experience the full effects of a concussion or TBI for 72 hours, or even longer.
Spinal Cord Damage
All spinal cord injuries require immediate emergency medical attention. As it plays a central role in just about every function of the human body, any damage to the spinal cord could result in paralysis and/or neurological impairment. If you or your family member suffered a spinal cord injury in a crash, contact an experienced Washington catastrophic injury attorney as soon as possible.
Get Help From Our Washington Auto Accident Lawyers Today
At Premier Law Group, our Washington car accident attorneys have the skills, training, and tenacity to handle the full range of auto accident claims. We will stand up for your rights against the big insurance companies. To arrange a free, no obligation accident consultation, please contact our law firm right away. From our offices in Seattle, Bellevue, Federal Way, and Renton we represent injured victims throughout the region.
Jason at premier law group is truly an outstanding individual. Our particular case was not something that their firm usually sees but they were more than willing to help us and give us all of the information they had available. I can't recommend them enough.