Understanding Types Of Injuries After A Car Accident In St. Louis, MO

Car accidents are unexpected events that can have devastating physical and emotional consequences.

Each accident is unique, and the severity of injuries varies depending on the vehicles involved, the speed at impact, and the type of collision.

As personal injury lawyers in St. Louis, MO, we’ve seen a range of injuries following car accidents.

Here’s a closer look at the types of injuries often sustained:

  1. Whiplash and Neck Injuries:
    Whiplash is one of the most common injuries in car accidents, especially in rear-end collisions. The rapid back-and-forth movement of the head can strain or damage neck muscles, ligaments, and nerves. Symptoms may include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and dizziness.
  2. Head and Brain Injuries:
    Even at low speeds, a car accident can cause head injuries. Impact with the steering wheel, dashboard, or windows can lead to concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), and other head injuries. TBIs can be life-altering, resulting in cognitive difficulties, memory loss, and long-term impairment.
  3. Back and Spinal Cord Injuries:
    The impact of a collision can injure the spine, leading to herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, and nerve damage. More severe accidents can cause spinal cord injuries, potentially resulting in paralysis.
  4. Broken Bones and Fractures:
    Limbs, ribs, and facial bones are especially prone to breaking in high-impact crashes. Bones may break due to impact with the car’s interior, such as the steering wheel, dashboard, or doors, or from being caught between twisted metal or airbags.
  5. Soft Tissue Injuries:
    Soft tissues include muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Injuries like sprains, strains, and tears are common in accidents, often causing pain, swelling, and reduced mobility.
  6. Internal Injuries:
    Internal organs can be damaged by the force of the collision or by broken ribs puncturing vital organs. Internal bleeding, ruptured spleens, and liver injuries require immediate medical attention.
  7. Psychological Injuries:
    Car accidents don’t only affect the body—they can impact mental health too. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression are common psychological injuries that can be just as debilitating as physical ones.

What to Do If You’re Injured in a Car Accident

If you or a loved one is injured in a car accident, seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine. Some injuries, especially internal and head injuries, may not show symptoms right away.

Getting checked by a healthcare professional ensures proper diagnosis and treatment.

Contact Our St. Louis Car Accident Lawyers for Assistance

If you’ve suffered injuries in a car accident due to another driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Reach out to our team of personal injury attorneys today for a free consultation at 314-863-0500. 

We’re here to help you understand your rights and navigate the legal process, so you can focus on healing and recovery.