Common Rear-End Collision Injuries To Know

There is no denying the fact that car accidents are emotionally and physically horrific. Even accidents at low speeds can lead to physical trauma.

Some of these injuries are noticeable immediately, while others will not manifest for days or even weeks. This is particularly the case with rear-end collisions, according to Nolo.

car-injury-accidentsRear-end collisions are one of the most common types of accidents. That is why NHTSA has implemented a plan to help reduce these numbers by requesting automobile manufacturers to create emergency braking systems standard in newer vehicles. This emergency, automatic system will stop a vehicle that gets too close to another vehicle; thus, reducing the likelihood of a rear-end accident.

Despite technology, accidents still occur. Rear-end collisions are the most frequent because they happen in many ways (i.e. tailgating, driver inattention, poor weather conditions, road defects, and even construction).

Individuals involved in a rear-end collision should seek medical attention immediately.

Even if they do not experience any pain, having a qualified physician perform an examination may reduce further injury and suffering. More importantly, drivers should be aware of the types of injuries they could sustain in a rear-end accident (regardless of their speed at the time).

What Injuries Are Common With Rear-End Collisions?

Even without significant vehicle damage, a person may suffer injuries in their rear end collision. Some common injuries seen with this type of accident include:

1. Whiplash (Soft Tissue Injuries)

Whiplash is used to describe the motion that leads to injury, but it is not an actual diagnosis. It is a form of soft tissue damage that forces the neck into an action that includes head rotation, tension, extension, and flexion.

According to Medscape, rear-end impacts are likely to cause whiplash since restraints protect the thoracic and lumbar spine, but leave the neck and head loose.

Those suffering from whiplash are likely to experience pain and stiffness in their neck and shoulder areas. They may experience reduced range of motion, soreness, blurred vision, unusual sensations (i.e. tingling), and possibly headaches, according to Nolo.

2. Recurring Headaches Or Migraines

Headaches may develop several days after the motor vehicle collision. These can indicate a more serious problem, such as injury to the neck or a traumatic brain injury, according to an article published by Dr. Alex Bigham on KTAR News. Headaches are also a commonly delayed symptom following an accident.

3. Chronic And Acute Back Pain

Back pain often occurs because of the injuries to the muscles, nerves or ligaments. Lower back pain is common in a rear-end accident. This is because the violence back and forth thrusting motion associated with a rear-end impact can result in a compression of the spine and discs located in the lower back region.

Those suffering from back pain may only experience pain and soreness, but some could have chronic, recurring back problems.

4. Face And Head Injuries Associated With Airbags

In some rear-end accidents, a person’s vehicle may be pushed into another vehicle or fixed object. This will release the airbag. When an airbag deploys, a person’s face may experience burns and bruises.

In low-speed impacts, it is unlikely the airbag will deploy, and this is more dangerous. Without the airbag, the driver’s face is more likely to strike the steering wheel, which could lead to lacerations, bruises, abrasions, or even broken bones and brain trauma.

5. Injuries To The Extremities

The sheer force involved in a rear-end accident may cause a driver’s wrists, hands, fingers or arms to strike the steering wheel or other objects in the vehicle. Airbags can also cause injury to the extremities – including burns.

6. Seatbelt Injuries And Complications

Seatbelts are meant to save lives, but they can still lead to injuries in rear-end accidents.

These safety harnesses hold the human body firmly to the seat and prevent the body from thrusting forward in an accident. Unfortunately, the strength of the harness can lacerate a person’s skin or leave extensive bruising on the hip, chest, and torso.

7. Numbness In The Extremities

This includes a loss of feeling in the arms, hands or other extremities. It is typically an indication of whiplash, but it can also be a sign of spinal cord damage. According to KTAR, 20 percent of those involved in rear-end accidents develop numbness symptoms and whiplash.

Seeking Help For Rear-End Accident Injuries – Contact An Attorney In Mesa, AZ

Most rear-end collisions involve some form of negligence. If a driver has been seriously injured in a rear-end accident, they may be able to seek compensation through an attorney in Mesa, AZ.

Liability in rear-end accidents is not always as clear as it seems. While Arizona does employ the at-fault system for accident cases, there is built-in flexibility that can help drivers reach a settlement with the other party’s insurer.

For serious injuries resulting from a rear-end accident, victims need an attorney in Mesa, AZ. The accident team at Tobler Law understands the complex issues surrounding rear-end collisions. They also understand the different injuries (including long-term, chronic conditions) that can arise from these types of accidents.

Get in touch with an attorney from Tobler Law today for a no obligation consultation at 480-898-9700 or fill out an online contact form for a lawyer in Mesa, AZ to communicate with you.

 

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