Gingras, Thomsen & Wachs, LLP has years of experience handling personal injury cases. The harrowing experience of being involved in rear-end accidents can have a devastating impact on individuals and their families. Below are 10 of the most common injuries rear-end collision victims experience.
1. Mental Health
When a person suffers a car accident, specifically a rear-end accident, one of the more severe injuries that can occur is not even physical but has to do with mental health. Experiencing a rear-end car accident can induce feelings of stress and anxiety, often leading to heightened stress and apprehension while driving. In some severe cases, the sudden movement of surrounding vehicles may even trigger emotional events, well after the fact.
2. Internal Injuries
Rear-end collisions resulting in internal bleeding and organ damage can lead to profound physical consequences. Beyond the immediate medical concerns, the accident victim may grapple with chronic pain, disability, and psychological distress.
3. Back Injuries
The impact of a rear-end accident can jolt the spine. Back injuries such as herniated discs, sprains, or fractures can lead to a spinal cord injury. Spinal discs, when injured, can cause severe back pain, which may require extensive medical treatment and even rehabilitation.
4. Spinal Cord Injuries
In severe rear-end crashes, damage to the spinal cord can occur. Paralysis or loss of sensation below the injury site is also possible. These life-threatening injuries demand medical care and support for the individual and their loved ones.
5. Brain Injuries
The force generated by a rear-end car accident can cause the head to hit the steering wheel, which may lead to the brain striking the skull. This causes what is referred to as a traumatic brain injury or TBI. Symptoms range from mild confusion to profound cognitive impairment. Prompt medical evaluation and treatment are critical.
6. Facial Injuries
Facial injuries not only cause physical repercussions but can result in emotional trauma due to disfigurement. When a rear-end collision occurs, the airbag may deploy, and the collision forces can cause eye injuries, lacerations, contusions, and fractures.
7. Chest and Rib Injuries
Other common injuries from a rear-end car accident are those to the chest and ribs. The sudden deceleration can cause occupants to be forcefully propelled forward. These injuries typically occur due to the seat belt or collision with the steering wheel or dashboard.
8. Shoulder Injuries
A common injury from a rear-end wreck is a shoulder injury. Rotator cuff dislocations or tears are common. These injuries can limit mobility and cause chronic shoulder pain, drastically affecting your daily life and activities.
9. Arm and Wrist Injuries
The impact from even a minor rear-end collision can cause occupants to reach out to brace themselves, resulting in wrist and arm injuries including broken bones, sprains, and strains. Immediate medical intervention is essential to prevent long-term complications.
10. Ankle and Foot Injuries
Ankle and foot injuries can range from minor sprains to broken bones, which may require surgical intervention. Accident victims are vulnerable to lower extremity injuries due to impact or even from being pinned by debris.
Seeking Immediate Medical Attention
After an auto accident, it’s paramount that you seek medical attention. Some injury symptoms may not manifest immediately, even if the injuries seem minor. Prompt evaluation can ensure timely treatment and documentation of injuries for your insurance company and for potential legal claims.
Legal Rights and Options
Gingras, Thomsen & Wachs, LLP can guide you through the legal process and advocate for your rights with compassion. As a victim of a rear-end accident, you have legal rights and options for seeking compensation. Whether you suffered minor or severe injuries, an experienced personal injury attorney will be your biggest advocate.
Preventing Rear-End Collisions
Even when driving at low speeds, car accidents can happen. Simple measures such as maintaining a safe following distance, avoiding distractions, and obeying traffic laws are essential in avoiding rear-end accidents. While we strive to provide exceptional legal representation, we also emphasize the importance of avoiding rear-end collisions altogether.
Our Commitment
At Gingras, Thomsen & Wachs, LLP, we are committed to helping individuals who have suffered following all types of car collisions. If you or a loved one has suffered injuries following a rear-end crash, contact us for a free consultation and allow us to help you obtain the compensation you deserve.
