Every year in the United States, around 3 million people sustain injuries as a result of car accidents. 2 million people experience permanent injuries, while around 30,000 people die on our roads each year.

There primary causes of car accidents include distracted driving, speed, ignoring the rules of the road, inclement weather, drunk driving, and inexperienced drivers. The injuries sustained in car accidents can range from minor to catastrophic. These injuries include both physical and emotional.

In this blog post, we will look at 5 common types of car accident injuries and how they are treated. Let’s get started.

1. Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries include muscle contusions, sprains, bruises, and other damage to the soft tissues in the body. Common injuries following car accidents include damage to the ligaments, muscles, and tendons, which make up the body’s connective tissue.

Whiplash is another common soft tissue injury. It occurs when the muscles and ligaments in the neck and back are stretched due to rapid movement. You should visit an orthopedic doctor, who specializes in the musculoskeletal system, if you have sustained a soft tissue injury.

2. Chest Injuries

Chest injuries frequently occur during car accidents. They typically occur when the driver collides at speed with the steering wheel. Seatbelts and dashboards may also contribute to chest injuries.

Broken ribs, bruising, and internal injuries are common chest injuries and it is recommended that you see an orthopedic doctor. Depending on the severity of the injury, emergency treatment may be required.

3. Arm and Leg Injuries

Common arm and leg injuries as a result of car accidents include:

  • Broken bones
  • Sprains
  • Bruises
  • Cuts and scrapes

During a collision, occupants may have their limbs thrown against objects within the car, such as the seats and the doors. In the case of broken bones, surgery and plaster casts may be required.

4. Head Injuries

Undoubtedly one of the most serious and severe types of car accident injury is head injury. These injuries can be life-changing and catastrophic. Examples of head injuries following car accidents include:

  • Bruising and tearing of brain tissue
  • Permanent brain damage
  • Concussion
  • Cuts and scrapes

The severity of the injury will determine the kind of medical care required. Many head injuries will require immediate emergency treatment.

5. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Not all injuries related to car accidents are physical or visible. Many people are affected by the emotional and mental toll of being in a car accident. Post-traumatic stress disorder can impact a person’s overall quality of life and make everyday tasks feel impossible to achieve.

A psychologist or psychiatrist can help people who are struggling with the emotional effects of a car accident.

Common Types of Car Accident Injuries

The first thing you should do following a car accident is to take the time to recover. Seeing a medical professional is an essential part of the recovery process.

Like this blog post on the different types of car accident injuries? Be sure to check out our other informative articles on a wide range of interesting topics.