Car accidents can be categorized into various types, with rear-end collisions being the most common. These accidents often happen when a driver follows another vehicle too closely or fails to notice stopped traffic ahead.
Some of the rear-end accidents seem normal at first, but they can lead to serious issues, and sometimes even can be the reason for long-term injuries. After the crash, some people feel they were fine, but they experience the pain hours or even days later.
That is why it is so necessary to seek medical attention, even if you think the crash was minor. The vehicle speed, wearing seatbelts, and seat position can cause either a little or a severe injury. Let’s look at some of the most common injuries caused by these types of crashes.
- Whiplash and Neck Injuries
Whiplash is the most well-known injury related to rear-end crashes. It happens when the neck is suddenly jerked forward and then snapped back, straining muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
In rare cases, whiplash can take several weeks or months to recover, and severe cases may cause chronic pain. Symptoms can include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and even dizziness.
- Back Injuries
In a rear-end collision, a force hits the back region, such as the spine and lower back. Herniated discs, sprains, and strains are typical, especially if the victim was sitting still when and after the crash occurred.
Meanwhile, back injuries can render you unable to move and significantly impact your daily life, affecting both your professional and personal life.
- Head and Brain Injuries
During the crash, you may think your head does not get hit by anything, but the jolt can cause traumatic brain injury (TBI). Concussions are common, and in more serious accidents, people may suffer from memory problems, confusion, or ongoing headaches.
- Emotional Trauma
Apart from the physical injuries, some car accident victims might be affected by injuries that they cannot see, which does not mean they aren’t injured. They suffer from emotional pressure or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). They may have sleepless nights, anxiety, or fear of driving again, because they are holistically affected by the incident.
How to Get Compensation After a Rear-End Collision
If you have been involved in a rear-end accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Here are some important steps to remember to protect your rights:
- After the accident, getting medical treatment and care as fast as you can is crucial. Once you are fully recovered, receiving your medical records will be essential for your claim.
- Make the accident scene as evidence by documenting it. Documenting includes capturing photos of the accident location, the vehicles involved, and your injuries. Collect and gather all medical receipts and records of missed work.
- Report the accident to the police, ensuring that a police report is filed. It is a key piece of evidence.
- Get legal advice from a personal injury attorney who can help you through the entire legal journey. Who can complete the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and help make sure you get the compensation you deserve?
Final Thoughts
Rear-end accidents might seem easy to handle, but the injuries can be severe and long-lasting. Do not take any chances with your health or your future. By knowing the several types of injuries that can happen and knowing how to get help, you will be in a better position to recover both physically and financially.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a rear-end collision, consider speaking with an experienced personal injury attorney. You do not have to go through this alone. ?
