Rear-end collisions are one of the most common types of automobile accidents, making up nearly 30 percent of all accidents nationwide. They are often caused by a negligent driver who is not paying attention to the road or traffic ahead. With the added distraction of our phones or other mobile devices, losing focus on the road ahead is becoming an even bigger problem. While you may think that being rear-ended is a relatively minor event, the accident injuries can be quite severe.
Whiplash is the most common injury experienced by drivers and passengers of a car that has been rear-ended. Whiplash, according to eMedicineHealth, is actually a non-medical term that describes injury to the soft tissues of the neck. It can cause symptoms such as tenderness of the back, neck, and shoulders, neck swelling, muscle spasms, headache, difficulty with concentration, sleep issues, jaw tightness, visual disturbances, difficulty flexing or rotating the head, ringing in the ears, and other issues. These problems are not always recognized immediately after the accident occurs and can require weeks or months of recovery. Whiplash injuries can even require surgery and have the potential to cause lifelong disability in the worst cases.
Other common injuries from rear-end accidents include spinal injuries, low back pain, air bag and seat belt related injuries. Brain injuries are also possible, which are caused when the brain is jarred inside the skull from the same rapid back-and-forth motion that leads to whiplash. Wrist and hand injuries are also common if the driver was clutching the steering wheel or if a passenger braces him/herself against the dashboard at the time of impact.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a rear-end collision, don’t let anyone convince you that the accident wasn’t a big deal or that your injuries aren’t serious. The law firm of DDB Law will work to build a strong case and get you the compensation you need to make a full recovery. For more information, contact us.