Road accidents change lives in seconds. While the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that the number of people dying from car accidents has steadily declined over the past years, death isn’t the only thing we have to worry about. Car accidents often lead to severe injuries that affect victims and their families for years to come.
When crashes happen at high speeds or involve large vehicles, the human body experiences extreme forces. These forces can cause injuries that take months or years to heal if they heal at all. Here are three of the worst injuries one can sustain from road accidents:
1. Brain trauma
A blow to the head during a crash can harm the brain. Victims might lose their memory, struggle to speak or have trouble with basic tasks. Many need help with daily activities and face hefty medical bills for ongoing care.
2. Spine damage
Crash forces can break or hurt the spine, often leading to loss of feeling and movement in parts of the body. Some people can’t walk anymore, while others lose the use of both arms and legs. They need special equipment and home changes to live their daily lives.
3. Severe bone breaks
Hard impacts break bones in ways that don’t heal quickly. Legs, hips and chest bones often take the worst hits. Victims need surgery to put metal plates and screws in place. Many face long periods of therapy to walk or move again.
These injuries result in substantial medical costs and lost work time. They affect not just the injured person but also their whole family. Quick action after a crash helps prevent worse outcomes. Always get checked by doctors immediately, even if you initially feel fine.
If you’ve faced any of these injuries, remember you have rights. Medical bills and lost wages can overwhelm anyone. A lawyer who knows about road accidents can help you get the support you need to focus on getting better.