Despite all the anti-crash technology and other modern safety features, car crashes still happen every day. Crash injuries can range from minor to major. Some of the more severe injuries include crush injuries and internal bleeding. However, some of the more catastrophic injuries involve the head, neck, and spine. When injuries occur in these areas of the body, it is not uncommon for the victim to suffer chronic pain, permanent disabilities, and mental trauma. Victims often must deal with loss of future income because their injuries leave them unable to go back to the profession they had before the crash and injuries occur.
If you or a loved one has suffered a head, neck, or spine injury in a crash caused by a negligent driver, contact Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp to speak with one of our Virginia personal injury attorneys to find out what legal recourse you may have.
Head Injuries
Our legal team knows that even what appears to be a mild bump on the head can result in bruising and swelling of the brain and can lead to more serious conditions for the victim. Some of the most common head injuries that occur in car accidents include the following:
- Concussions: The victim may or may not lose consciousness, and the effects of a concussion can be long-lasting. Concussions are categorized as grade 1, 2, or 3 depending on the severity of the injury.
- Edema: An edema is the swelling of the brain. This swelling causes increased pressure on the brain that can also increase the chance that the brain will press against the skull. This condition increases the risk the victim can suffer brain damage.
- Hematoma: Hematomas are also referred to as a blood clot. A large hematoma can cause serious issues, especially if it puts pressure on the victim’s brain. This can increase the risk of irreversible brain damage.
- Hemorrhage: A hemorrhage is actually uncontrolled bleeding. When a hemorrhage occurs, this creates excessive free-floating blood. This can put pressure on the brain, as well as increase the risk of the victim’s death because of all the blood loss.
- Skull fracture: Depending on the force of the impact from the crash, a victim can slam their head on the inside of the vehicle. This can cause the skull to fracture, even with working airbags. It some cases, the victim may need surgery on the skull.
Neck Injuries
The neck contains seven vertebrae and any damage to these small bones can result in the victim suffering severe disability. Some of the more common neck injuries that occur in vehicle crashes include:
- Fractures: Broken bones in the neck can also damage nerves, resulting in serious injuries.
- Muscle strain: When muscles in the neck are strained in a crash, the victim can suffer from chronic headaches and their ability to perform everyday activities can be seriously limited.
- Whiplash: Whiplash is one of the most common injuries in a crash. Even a very slow-speed, the minor impact can result in a whiplash injury. This type of injury occurs when there is a quick back and forth motion of the head, like the cracking of a whip. A whiplash injury can cause dizziness, forgetfulness, headaches, mood changes, and neck and shoulder pain.
Spine Injuries
The spine is made up of vertebrae that protect the spinal cord. The jolting motion, when there is a crash impact, can put tremendous pressure on the back. Common back injuries that happen in a crash include:
- Fractures: Fractures can occur in any of the 33 vertebrae that run from the neck down to the tailbone.
- Herniated discs: Car accidents may affect the cushions (the discs) between the vertebrae. If the inside portion of the disc bulges through the outside portion of the disc, it can press on nerves, causing pain, tingling, and even numbness. Discs can also tear.
- Spinal cord injuries: The spinal cord consists of nerves that connect the entire body to the brain and the central nervous system. Any damage to the spinal cord is serious and potentially life-threatening. Even a mild injury can result in pain, loss of sensation, or paralysis.
Contact a Virginia Car Accident Attorney
Head, neck, and spine injuries are unfortunately common car accident injuries, and they are often very serious. From medical treatments to long-term care expenses, these injuries can lead to significant financial difficulties. At Shapiro, Appleton, & Washburn, our team of Virginia car accident lawyers has years of experience working with car accident victims, including those with head, neck, and spine injuries. To schedule a free consultation, contact our office today at (833) 997-1774.
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