Ballywho News

Suffering a car accident can be traumatic, especially if anyone suffers an injury. The good news is that most accidents involve only minor injuries that heal on their own, without medical intervention. However, some more serious injuries may not even have outward symptoms. It’s important for anyone who suffers an auto accident to seek medical attention to get any potential injuries diagnosed and treated as soon as possible.

Types of Injuries

Usually automobile accidents cause trauma to the skeletal system and the soft tissue around it. The more delicate the body part, the more prone to injury it is. That means that the neck, back, and brain are prime candidates for injury during an accident.

• Whiplash: The single most common accident injury, whiplash occurs when the soft tissue in the neck is damaged by abrupt movement. The muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerves can become stiff or swollen, causing restrictions on movement and soreness. Usually these symptoms subside after a few days, but if they persist, it’s important to see a doctor.
• Back pain: Any time the spine and back muscles are moved abruptly or unnaturally, back pain can result. While whiplash tends to occur in rear-end collisions, back pain can arise after virtually any accident. Like whiplash, most minor back pain should go away in a few days. However, if you experience shooting pain, numbness, or pain that lasts more than a few days, go see a doctor.
• Joint damage: Many people bang their knees against the bottom of the dashboard during a collision. However, other joints may also be injured, particularly the hips, elbows, and ankles. Joint damage may include swelling, soreness, sprains, fractures, and dislocations. Any sort of joint injury requires medical attention.
• Concussion: A concussion occurs when the brain makes contact with the skull, usually due to a hard blow to the head. They range from mild to severe. Symptoms include dizziness, sleepiness, bruising around the eyes, memory loss, and disorientation. Anyone who suffers a blow to the head should go to the hospital to ensure that any damage is caught and treated.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): These are far more common in side impact collisions, where the head makes contact with the side window. Although less common, TBI are more serious than other kinds of auto accident injuries. Skull fractures, brain bruising (hematoma), and severe nerve damage all qualify as TBI and require immediate medical attention.

When to Get Help

For more serious injuries, call 9-1-1 and head to the emergency room. If you suspect that you’ve suffered an injury, go to a doctor whom you trust. Skip those “physician referral” services, and visit your general practitioner. Get a referral to a specialist for any more specific concerns.

You may face resistance from your insurance company when filing for coverage of medical expenses. Note that because Florida is a no-fault state, your insurance company is responsible for your medical expenses and lost wages, up to the limits of your policy. Meanwhile, if the other driver is faulted in the accident, his or her insurance should cover any costs that exceed those covered by your insurance policy. Most claimants find that hiring an auto accident attorney significantly reduces the time it takes for their claims. Furthermore, if a case must go to court, a personal injury attorney is a vital ally for the litigation process.

For the best outcome, get a full medical examination if you’re in an accident and suspect more than minor injuries. Keep careful records of all treatments and expenditures. Finally, choose a reputable attorney who has extensive experience with auto accidents and personal injury litigation.