Every time you get into your vehicle, you are at risk of getting into a car accident. Any type of accident, no matter how significant, can result in injuries that affect your daily life.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 2 million people in the U.S. sustain injuries in a car accident every year. These injuries range from severe to minor, but there are several types of injuries that are common in many accidents.
1. Neck and back injuries
The force at which a motor vehicle collision occurs can result in injuries to your neck and back that are not immediately apparent and take time to heal. For example, a car accident can result in a rupture or herniation of the discs in your spine.
2. Whiplash
After a car accident, you may experience discomfort or pain in your neck and your back. This occurs when your muscles and ligaments experience unusual strain. Although whiplash rarely results in permanent harm, it can take several weeks to make a full recovery.
3. Concussions
A concussion can occur in a car accident when you hit your head on part of your car. A concussion can result in issues with your memory and in severe cases, a traumatic brain injury that affects multiple parts of your life.
Even if a car accident did not cause serious injuries, see your physician soon after to check your physical health. If you notice any issues or injuries that show up in the days following the accident, seek assistance from a medical provider.