Car accidents happen every day in Philadelphia, often resulting in injury to one or more people involved. While many injuries are immediately apparent, others may not even show up until days, weeks, or even months after a car accident. That’s why it’s crucial to seek medical attention after a car accident. Doctors and medical professionals know what types of injuries to look for after car accidents and how to begin the healing process.
Types of Car Accident Injuries
The type and severity of car accident injuries depend on several factors. The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration has reported that seat belt usage is on the rise across Pennsylvania. Seat belt use is a major factor in the severity of injuries from a car accident. Other things that contribute include whether an airbag deployed, speed, location of impact, and where you’re and how you’re positioned in the vehicle.
In a busy city like Philadelphia, the severity of car accidents can vary. Damages are diverse, but many result in major or minor injuries. Some of the most common types of injuries include:
- Broken Bones – Many car accident victims sustain broken arms, ribs, ankles, and other bones during a collision. Broken bones may take a long time to heal and may require ongoing physical therapy or surgery.
- Lacerations/Scarring – During an accident, glass may break and other objects are thrown throughout the vehicle. Cuts, scrapes, and worse injuries can cause scarring and could require plastic surgery.
- Neck Injuries/Whiplash – Neck injuries such as whiplash are some of the most serious injuries, and they are frighteningly common in Philadelphia collisions. Treatment for whiplash can take several months and some people report ongoing pain and the need for physical therapy.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries – Another severe type of injury many Philadelphia car accident victims experience is Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). A TBI can impact a person for a lifetime with symptoms such as blurred vision, confusion, memory problems, and many more.
- Paralyzation – Car accidents account for over ⅓ of spinal injuries across the United States. Many spine injuries result in paralyzation that can affect every facet of a person’s life.
- Back Injuries – Different types of back injuries are among the most common injuries sustained after a collision or other car accident. Certain back injuries are permanent, painful, and call for lifelong treatment.
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder – Physical injuries or not, a car accident can have other impacts on a victim. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a serious mental condition that can necessitate counseling, therapy, and ongoing support.
What to Do if You Were Injured in a Philadelphia Car Crash
Did you sustain a serious injury after a car accident in the Philadelphia area? After you access medical care and seek treatment, you should also consider calling a car accident attorney. Jason Javie Law Office specializes in helping victims of car accidents in PA seek compensation for their injuries. We work on your behalf to fight insurance companies or pursue a lawsuit to receive the payment you deserve. Contact us today to go over your case during a free consultation with our Philadelphia-based accident attorneys.