What Are the 10 Most Common Car Accident Injuries?

Our Pittsburgh attorneys can help you fight for fair compensation

Car accidents happen every day in Pittsburgh. They might occur on the steep, narrow streets in icy winter conditions or during heavy traffic on the Fort Pitt Bridge. Many of these collisions have one thing in common: they result in car accident injuries that range from mild to severe or life-threatening.

Even what seems like a minor fender bender can result in serious medical issues that don’t show up right away. Whether you’ve been in a crash or want to stay informed, it’s important to know what you should look out for and why immediate action is so important.

Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries depending on the severity of the crash. In some cases, these injuries can turn your life upside down. Here are the 10 most common car accident injuries.

1. Head and brain injuries

The sudden impact of a collision can cause concussions or more severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), even if your head doesn’t hit anything directly. Symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, confusion, and memory loss may appear immediately or develop hours later.

These injuries can range from mild and temporary to severe. Serious TBIs can lead to long-term complications such as cognitive impairment or mood changes. Ignoring these symptoms risks worsening the damage, so always seek medical attention promptly if you suspect a head or brain injury after a collision.

2. Neck injuries

Neck injuries often occur in car accidents, even at low speeds. Whiplash is one of the most common types of neck injuries and is caused by the sudden snapping motion of the neck, which strains muscles, ligaments, and tendons. As a result, you end up with stiffness, pain, and reduced mobility. In some cases, it causes cervical strain or sprain, which can cause serious discomfort.

Drivers and passengers often feel symptoms hours or even days after a collision. That’s why it’s important to get an early medical evaluation. Ignoring neck pain can lead to long-term complications, so seek professional care promptly to address the injury and prevent it from worsening.

3. Back injuries

Back and spine injuries often result from the intense force of a car crash, which can compress, twist, or jolt the body unnaturally. Herniated discs cause severe pain, numbness, or weakness in the limbs. Spinal cord injuries can lead to partial or complete loss of mobility, depending on the damage’s location and severity.

Even muscle strains and other less severe back injuries can cause chronic discomfort and limit daily activities. These injuries may not appear immediately, so watch for symptoms such as persistent pain, tingling, or difficulty moving.

4. Chest injuries

Car accidents often result in chest injuries, especially from the force of seat belts, airbags, or impacts with the steering wheel. Drivers and passengers may suffer bruised ribs, fractured sternums, or internal organ damage. These injuries can cause intense chest pain, shortness of breath, or tenderness in the affected area.

In severe cases, internal bleeding or damage to the heart and lungs can occur, which poses life-threatening risks. Always take chest pain or difficulty breathing seriously after a car accident and seek medical attention immediately.

5. Bone fractures

Broken bones are among the most common injuries in car accidents, with the arms, legs, ribs, and collarbones typically affected. The force of a collision can throw vehicle occupants against hard surfaces or crush limbs, which leads to fractures. Symptoms often include severe pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the affected area.

In some cases, the break may be visible, with bones protruding through the skin. Broken ribs can pose additional risks, such as puncturing internal organs. Quick medical attention ensures proper treatment, such as setting the bone or surgery if needed.

6. Internal injuries

Internal injuries often occur in car accidents due to the force of impact or collision with objects inside the vehicle. These injuries include internal bleeding and damage to vital organs such as the liver, spleen, or lungs. Symptoms may not appear immediately but can include abdominal pain, dizziness, fainting, or visible bruising.

Ignoring these signs can lead to serious complications, including organ failure or life-threatening blood loss. Your doctor may diagnose your internal injury through scans and tests to ensure you receive the appropriate treatment. Always seek immediate medical attention after a crash to catch these hidden but dangerous injuries early.

7. Cuts and lacerations

Cuts and lacerations often occur during car accidents when sharp objects, glass, or metal strike the body. Broken windows, deployed airbags, and loose items inside the vehicle can create hazards that lead to deep wounds. While some cuts may seem minor, they can still introduce risks of infection or major blood loss.

It’s important to promptly clean and dress the wound to reduce these risks, but severe lacerations may require stitches or surgical intervention. Always pay attention to even small cuts after a collision. If left untreated, they can worsen over time and complicate your recovery.

8. Soft tissue injuries

Soft tissue injuries rank among the most common types of car accident injuries and involve damage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Sprains and strains result from the sudden force of a collision, which can twist or overextend the body. Bruising, swelling, and pain frequently accompany these injuries, which makes everyday movements uncomfortable or even impossible.

While soft tissue injuries might seem minor at first, they can worsen without proper care. Physical therapy, rest, or medication often help, but severe cases may require longer recovery times. Always take signs of swelling or stiffness seriously and consult a doctor promptly.

9. Psychological conditions

Car accidents often leave emotional scars alongside physical injuries. Many people develop psychological conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, or depression after a crash. Victims may experience flashbacks, overwhelming fear of driving, or difficulty sleeping, which can make daily life feel overwhelming.

These mental health challenges can surface days or even weeks after a collision, which catches some people off guard. Ignoring these symptoms can worsen their impact over time. Addressing psychological injuries early allows you to heal emotionally and regain confidence, so you can move forward with your life after a car accident.

10. Burns

Burns from car accidents often result from vehicle fires, hot metal, or exposure to chemicals during a collision. These injuries can range from minor first-degree burns to severe third-degree burns that damage deeper layers of skin and tissue.

Victims typically experience pain, redness, and blistering, while severe burns may lead to scarring, infections, or long-term mobility issues. Immediate medical attention can help reduce complications and promote healing. In many cases, burn injuries require skin grafts or physical therapy.

Our Pittsburgh attorneys can fight to rebuild your life after a car accident

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Pittsburgh, you deserve an advocate who will fight for the compensation you deserve. No matter which car accident injuries you’re dealing with, Romanow Law Group is here to fight for you every step of the way. Our team works on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay us anything unless we win your case. This allows you to focus on recovery without worrying about upfront legal fees.

During your free consultation, we’ll take the time to understand your unique situation and explain your legal options in plain language. You can expect a compassionate and straightforward conversation where we’ll review your car accident details, discuss the impact of your injuries, and outline how we can help pursue fair compensation.

Don’t let the insurance company decide what your case is worth. With Romanow Law Group on your side, you’ll have experienced Pittsburgh car accident lawyers ready to take your case as far as it needs to go – even to trial. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and learn how we can help you.

“Completely satisfied with my experience with David Romanow Law Group. They kept in excellent contact throughout the process. Both David and Richard are passionate about what they do and it bleeds into their work I was referred here and will continue to refer others. No question the best in Pittsburgh.”
– AM
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