Car accidents occur on a daily basis, with rear-end collisions being the most common. You may use safe driving skills, but still, another driver crashes into the rear of your vehicle when they are speeding and/or following too closely. In most cases, the other driver was negligent, and you can sue for a rear-end collision.

In 2018, there were about 2,439 cases of rear-end collisions in the United States. The accidents resulted in both serious injuries and fatalities. It is always advisable to seek immediate medical attention if you have been involved in a rear-end collision as one may suffer broken ribs, disfigurement, paralysis, brain, and back injuries. Read on for more details.

Whiplash

A majority of people involved in rear-end accidents get whiplash injuries. It happens when a sudden force throws the head forward then immediately jacks it backward. The movements cause damage to the shoulders, back, and neck muscles. Whiplash symptoms include stiffness, shoulder pain, muscle spasm, dizziness, and headaches.

The injuries could be more severe if the driver had no time to prepare for impact, leaving their muscles in a relaxed state. According to the NHTSA, it is estimated that about 806,000 victims of rear-end collisions sustain whiplash injuries annually.

Head and Brain Injuries

Any rear-end collision may lead to head or brain injuries, no matter what the car’s speed. If a driver wasn’t wearing a seat belt, they may be thrown into the dashboard, windshield, or steering wheel, resulting in traumatic brain injury. Even after airbags deploy, the head could still be impaled or struck. If not urgently addressed, the victim risks permanent brain damage or death.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Association records revealed that about 1.7 million individuals suffered traumatic brain injuries, with 52,000 dying annually. It may take a while for the injury to manifest, but you can watch out for these common symptoms:

• Impaired speech
• Dizziness
• Reduced cognitive performance
• Loss of consciousness
• Chronic fatigue
• Abnormal behavior change

Wrist and Arm Injuries

A driver’s arms are usually on the steering wheel during a rear-end collision. It’s natural to brace for the impact in a driving position even after noticing a vehicle approaching from behind via the rear mirror. Stiffening the arms, shoulders, wrists, and hands may cause multiple injuries to a driver, including a dislocated shoulder, sprained wrist, tendon damage, or stress fractures.

Fractured Ribs and Broken Bones

The airbag’s deployment force has a significant impact on the chest that can easily break bones in the rib cage. Additionally, some loose objects in the car or other parts could strike into a victim’s limbs. Serious accidents can result in prolonged conditions like internal organ injury or secondary infections. 

Fractures may be accompanied by a sharp, intense, and deep pain. Victims can also experience other signs such as dizziness, bruising, heat, dizziness, stiffness, and weakness.

Disfigurement and Facial Injuries

A sudden rear-end crash may cause severe facial disfigurement or scarring. It can lead to cuts, bruises, lacerations, scrapes, and a broken nose. The accident can also result in dental issues such as jawbone damage, knocked-out, or broken teeth. 

Most of these injuries are due to slamming into the steering wheel, window, dashboard, or shattered glass. It is not unusual for victims to undergo extensive treatment, including multiple surgeries on their recovery journey.

Back Injuries

Many drivers and passengers suffer from back injuries since they are usually seated during the collision. Some sustain permanent spinal cord injuries, especially when the accident is severe.

Conclusion

A rear-end collision may lead to some of the above injuries, mostly unavoidable to the victim. As the driver who was hit, you have the right to file a lawsuit. Click here to learn how to sue for a rear-end collision. You might have to negotiate with the car insurance, but an attorney can help you with the case if you don’t reach an agreement.

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