Common Injuries in a New Jersey Car Accident

Every year, more than 2 million people are injured in car accidents across the United States. Some of these injuries are relatively minor, while others result in catastrophic, lifelong injuries or death. When a car accident occurs, it is important to do your best to think clearly so you can protect yourself, your well-being, and your legal rights. Caring for your physical and mental well-being in the hours, days, and weeks after a car crash is crucial.

Seeking medical treatment after a car accident, even a seemingly minor one, makes diagnosing and treating your injuries easier and helps ensure they do not worsen and cause a more serious medical problem. Once you have begun your recovery, you should discuss your legal rights with a New Jersey personal injury lawyer. Iannelli Law can analyze your situation and help you recover the financial compensation you deserve.

John C. Iannelli is a caring and compassionate injury attorney who proudly serves people in and around Blackwood and throughout South Jersey. He has been in practice since 1992 and has a demonstrated record of success for achieving outstanding results for his clients. Attorney Iannelli takes an aggressive approach to every case he takes on and will work to obtain superior results in your injury case. Contact Iannelli Law today to put his experience and expertise to work for you.

The Most Common Car Accident Injuries

Some types of car crashes are more likely than others to result in severe, catastrophic injuries. Accidents that happen at high speeds, head-on collisions, vehicle rollovers, and collisions that directly involve the side of the vehicle (a “T-bone” accident) are the most dangerous car crashes and are more likely to result in catastrophic injuries or death.

Regardless of the specific mechanism of injury, the most common injuries from a car accident include:

• Neck Injuries. Cervical strains and sprains, whiplash, herniated discs, and other damage to the neck are common after a car accident. These injuries often resolve with time, but promptly seeking medical treatment can help. Other times, these injuries are permanent and cause lifelong pain and suffering.
• Back Injuries. The extreme force of a car accident can damage the muscles and bones of the back. Sprains, herniated discs, and fractured vertebrae are common after a car accident. These injuries may result in lifelong pain and reduced mobility.
• Head Injuries. During a car accident, the body can be violently thrown forward and backward or from side to side inside the passenger compartment. This violent motion can cause the head to strike the inside of the vehicle resulting in injuries to the head and face.
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI). The violent motion of the body during a car accident can also cause the brain to strike the inside of the skull and result in Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). TBI can range from mild to severe. Common symptoms include headaches, nausea and vomiting, increased sensitivity to light, dizziness or balance issues, and weakness or tingling in the arms or legs. In severe cases, TBI can result in permanent psychological damage.
• Spinal Cord Damage. Damage to the spinal cord can result in loss of sensation or mobility. In severe cases, spinal cord damage can result in paralysis, which can drastically change a person’s future. In these cases, a victim may require lifelong care and treatment.
• Internal Injuries. The force of a collision can damage internal organs and result in internal bleeding. These injuries are often difficult to recognize. If left untreated, damage to internal organs can lead to shock, organ failure, or death.
• Fractures and Broken Bones. Broken bones are painful and often require medical treatment. In severe cases, a broken bone can puncture internal organs, causing even more serious damage and potential loss of life.
• Cuts and Lacerations. During a collision, loose items inside the vehicle can become projectiles that can cause cuts, lacerations, and bruising. Glass from a broken window or windshield can also cause serious injuries.
• Burns and Bruising. Seatbelts and airbags reduce the severity of injuries caused by a car accident, but they can lead to bruising, especially on the chest and abdomen. Deployment of the airbag can result in burn injuries, damage to the arms, wrist, and feet, and damage to the face.
• Wrongful Death. In the most severe cases, a car accident can result in the death of the driver or passengers.

Seek Medical Treatment After a New Jersey Car Accident

Even if you think you were not injured or that your injuries were not severe, you should still seek medical care and treatment after a car accident. Some injuries, especially damage to internal organs, are not immediately apparent. Injuries from a car accident may not appear immediately and are often masked by the “fight or flight” response that is common after a traumatic event like a car crash.

If you were injured, having an accurate medical record can help if you later decide to seek compensation for injuries.

Injured in a New Jersey Car Accident? Iannelli Law Can Help.

You may be entitled to compensation if you were injured in a car accident. Iannelli Law can analyze your situation, provide advice and legal guidance to help you evaluate your options, and fight for the compensation you deserve. John C. Iannelli has extensive experience representing people injured in New Jersey car accidents. He proudly represents people in and around Blackwood and throughout South Jersey. Contact our law office today to schedule an appointment to discuss your situation and how we can help.