Most Common Car Accident Injuries in California

10 Most common car accident injuries

In the aftermath of a car accident, it's not uncommon for individuals to face a range of physical injuries, from minor bruises to more severe trauma.

While the causes of car crashes and injuries can vary—from distractions on the road to adverse weather conditions—it's crucial to focus on recognizing and addressing the injuries themselves.

In this section, we'll take a closer look at the 10 most common types of car accident injuries, shedding light on their symptoms, potential complications, and the importance of seeking proper medical attention.

Whether you're dealing with minor soft tissue injuries or more serious spinal cord trauma, having a grasp of what to do in a car accident can empower you to make informed decisions regarding your health and well-being in the aftermath of a vehicle collision. 

Whiplash injuries

So, what is the most common injury in a car accident? Well, one of the most common injuries sustained during a collision is whiplash.

Whiplash occurs when the neck is forcefully jerked backward and then forward, causing strain or damage to the soft tissues and muscles. Symptoms may include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and difficulty moving the neck.

These injuries often require medical treatment, physical therapy, and may result in prolonged discomfort. It's crucial for accident victims to seek prompt medical attention to assess the extent of their injuries and start appropriate treatment.

Whiplash is a major result from the most common types of car accidents, so it’s no wonder it’s a high-frequency result of a collision.

If you're in Southern California and are suffering from whiplash due to another driver's negligence, contact us today for a free consultation.

Neck injuries

Aside from whiplash, other neck injuries, such as strains and fractures, are unfortunately quite common in serious car accident injuries, especially rear-end collisions. They can leave you dealing with types of pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving your neck and shoulders. In severe instances, they might even cause nerve damage or paralysis.

Seeking medical care promptly after sustaining neck injuries in a car accident is crucial. Your treatment plan may include rest, medication, and physical therapy, so it's essential to get evaluated by a healthcare provider as soon as possible to determine the best course of action.

Additional reading: who is at fault in a rear end collision in California

Soft tissue injuries

Soft tissue injuries, like strains, sprains, and contusions, are often seen in motor vehicle accident injuries. They impact muscles, ligaments, and tendons, leading to pain, swelling, and restricted movement. Despite seeming minor, these injuries can have lasting consequences if not treated properly.

Soft tissue injuries resulting from car accidents may require medical treatment, including rest, physical therapy, and pain management. Accident victims must ensure to document their injuries diligently and adhere to the recovery recommendations provided by their healthcare provider.

Back injuries

Back injuries are unfortunately quite common in an automobile accident injury, and they can vary greatly in severity. From mild strains to severe spinal cord damage, these injuries encompass a range of issues like:

• Herniated discs

• Vertebral fractures

• Spinal cord compression

Symptoms can include everything from back pain to numbness and difficulty walking.

Dealing with back injuries sustained in auto accidents often involves a comprehensive medical approach. This may include imaging tests, physical therapy, and in some cases, and may require surgery for more severe situations.

It's incredibly important for accident victims to seek medical attention as soon as possible to properly assess and address their back injuries.

Head and brain injuries

Head injuries and brain injuries can range from concussions to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and may have long-term effects on cognitive function and overall quality of life. Symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, confusion, and memory problems.

Head and brain injuries require immediate medical evaluation and treatment. Accident victims may need specialized care, including neuroimaging, rehabilitation therapy, and ongoing monitoring to manage their symptoms and prevent complications.

Due to the severity of brain injuries, compensation payouts can be high sums of figures, so we advise you to contact a Glendale brain injury lawyer as soon as possible.

Fractures and broken bones

Fractures and broken bones are unfortunately quite common in car accidents, often resulting from the force of the collision. They can occur in various parts of the body, such as the arms, ribs, pelvis, and knee injuries, causing significant pain, swelling, and mobility issues.

Types of bone fractures include:

• Displaced fractures: Bone breaks into multiple pieces and moves.

• Non-displaced fractures: Bone breaks but stays in place.

• Closed fractures: Bone is broken underneath unbroken skin.

• Open fractures: Bone breaks and exits through the skin.

• Stress fractures: Hairline cracks.

• Partial fractures: Fractures don't go all the way through the bone.

Dealing with fractures and broken bones sustained in car accidents often involves procedures like immobilization, realignment, and even surgery.

Chest injuries

Chest injuries, like broken ribs, fractures and damage to internal organs, unfortunately occur all too often in car accidents, especially those with high-speed impacts or severe blunt force trauma. They can lead to chest pain, breathing difficulties, and in some cases, even life-threatening complications.

If you sustain chest injuries in a car accident, it's crucial to seek immediate medical attention. This may involve emergency procedures like imaging tests, respiratory support, or surgery. Getting evaluated promptly by a healthcare provider is essential to determine the severity of your injuries and receive the necessary care.

No matter your injuries, contact us today if you're in Southern California for a free case evaluation with our expert attorneys

Facial injuries

Facial injuries, including lacerations, fractures, and dental trauma, are common injuries resulting from car accidents, especially when airbags deploy or occupants strike the dashboard or steering wheel. These injuries can cause pain, swelling, and disfigurement, impacting both physical appearance and function.

Facial injuries sustained in car accidents may require immediate medical attention, including:

• Wound care

• Fracture reduction

• Dental restoration

Accident victims should seek evaluation by a healthcare provider experienced in treating facial trauma, such as a dermatologist, to achieve optimal outcomes.

Spinal cord injuries

Spinal cord injuries are among the most severe consequences of critical car accident injuries, often resulting in partial or complete paralysis below the level of the injury. The toll they take on accident victims and their loved ones—physically, emotionally, and financially—is immense.

Spinal cord injuries require immediate medical intervention and long-term rehabilitation to maximize recovery and independence. Accident victims may need specialized care, adaptive equipment, and support services to adapt to life with a spinal cord injury.

With this in mind, there’s a good chance you’re entitled to financial compensation, so contact our Glendale spinal cord injury lawyers today for a free consultation.

Internal injuries

Internal injuries, such as organ damage and internal bleeding, are also common in a car crash injury, particularly those involving high-impact collisions or penetrating trauma. These injuries may not be immediately apparent but can lead to life-threatening complications if left untreated.

Dealing with internal injuries sustained in car accidents demands quick medical assessment and intervention to avoid worsening damage and complications. If you're experiencing any of the following symptoms, seek immediate medical attention immediately:

• Abdominal pain

• Dizziness

• Fainting

What are minor injuries in a car accident?

Minor injuries from car accidents typically include bruises, scrapes, and minor cuts. While they may not require extensive medical treatment, they can still cause discomfort and inconvenience. It's important to seek medical attention for even minor injuries to ensure proper documentation and timely treatment.

What are the most severe car crash injuries?

The most severe car accident injuries cover a wide spectrum of traumatic conditions, such as spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and multiple fractures. These serious injuries usually demand significant medical attention and rehabilitation, and could have lasting impacts on the victim's well-being and everyday life.

No matter the type of injury, all injuries can be potentially serious, and a car accident can cause post-traumatic stress disorder even in the most minor of injuries, which is why seeking prompt medical treatment is vital.

Additional reading: average car accident settlement in California

Have you sustained a car accident injury in Glendale, California?

If you're injured in a car accident in Glendale, California, you don't have to face the aftermath alone. Our experienced Glendale car accident attorney at Arzoomanian Law is here to provide the support and legal guidance you need while ensuring you're aware of the California car accident statute of limitations.

Reach out to us today for personalized assistance on your accident claim. Your rights and recovery are our priority, and we're ready to fight for you.