What Are the Most Common "Silent" Injuries from Car Accidents?

 Posted on January 16,2024 in Car Accidents

Vehicle accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor to fatal. Some of these injuries are immediately visible and have immediate symptoms, such as broken bones, lacerations, and bruising. Other injuries can be less apparent; however, they are just as debilitating. These silent injuries can have a significant impact on a person's physical and emotional well-being and if left untreated, can result in serious disabilities or even death. This is why each Illinois personal injury lawyer at our firm recommends you always seek out medical attention after any type of accident, even if you do not think you have any injuries.

The following are four of the most common types of "silent" car accident injuries.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Traumatic brain injury is a hidden consequence of car accidents that can have devastating effects on a person's life. Even if there are no visible signs of head trauma, the force and impact of the crash can result in brain injury.

The brain can be injured if it hits the skull or experiences rapid deceleration and acceleration during a collision. TBIs can range from mild concussions with temporary symptoms to severe and life-altering brain damage. Symptoms of a brain injury may not be immediately apparent. Some of the symptoms to watch for are confusion, memory problems, headaches, dizziness, mood swings, and difficulty concentrating. In severe cases, individuals may experience seizures, paralysis, or cognitive impairment.

Internal Injuries

Internal injuries, often hidden from plain sight, can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Car accidents can cause damage to internal organs, leading to conditions such as internal bleeding, organ perforation, or damage to the liver, spleen, or kidneys.

The adrenaline surge immediately after an accident may mask symptoms (known as "fight or flight response"), making it challenging to identify these types of injuries. Over time, individuals may experience pain, lightheadedness, shortness of breath, nausea or vomiting, bruising, and profuse sweating.

Internal injuries can worsen if left untreated, and their consequences can be severe. Seeking immediate medical attention after an accident is crucial to rule out internal injuries and ensure early intervention if necessary.

Back Injuries

Back injuries are another invisible consequence of car accidents that can cause long-term pain and discomfort. The crash impact can cause a variety of different types of back injuries, including herniated discs, spinal cord damage, and soft tissue injuries.

Back pain may not manifest immediately after an accident but can worsen over time. Symptoms may include persistent pain, numbness or tingling in the extremities, muscle weakness, and limited mobility.

These injuries can significantly impact a person's ability to work, engage in physical activities, or enjoy a pain-free life.

Whiplash

Whiplash is one of the most well-known invisible injuries resulting from car accidents, especially rear-end collisions. It occurs when the head is jerked back and forth from the impact force, causing strain on the neck's soft tissues. While whiplash may not produce immediate symptoms, individuals often experience neck pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion in the days or weeks following the accident. Headaches, shoulder pain, and even tingling or numbness in the arms can develop.

Whiplash can be debilitating, affecting a person's ability to perform daily tasks and significantly reducing their quality of life.

Contact a Lake County, IL Personal Injury Lawyer for Legal Help

If you have been injured in a crash, a Lake Zurich, IL car accident attorney from Premier Illinois Injury Lawyers can help you get the financial compensation you deserve. Call 847-721-2499 today to schedule a free and confidential consultation and discover what legal options you may have.