Some types of motor vehicle collisions seem more dangerous than others. While people can get hurt in any type of crash, people tend to be the most afraid of head-on collisions or angle crashes. On the other hand, they might be outright dismissive about rear-end collisions.
Contrary to what people might expect, rear-end collisions can be incredibly dangerous. People can die in rear-end collisions. They can also sustain injuries that generate thousands of dollars in medical care or affect their careers.
What types of serious injuries are common in rear-end collisions?
1. Whiplash
Soft tissue injuries do not get the respect that they deserve. Even whiplash, which can be painful and limiting, is viewed as minor by many people. Whiplash is generally a medical condition that resolves on its own.
Still, some people require pain relievers, muscle relaxants, physical therapy and other medical interventions to recuperate. Additionally, professionals may not be able to work until their whiplash symptoms subside. Soft tissue injuries such as whiplash can cost people tens of thousands of dollars and are relatively common among those in the front vehicle in a rear-end crash scenario.
2. Traumatic brain injuries
Anyone in either of the vehicles involved in the rear-end crash could potentially hurt their brains. The powerful force of a rear-end crash can result in drivers jerking forward and backward. That motion alone can cause bleeding and inflammation of the brain.
Other times, people may hit their heads on the dashboard, steering wheel or other parts of the car. Traumatic brain injuries caused by car crashes can cause a broad assortment of symptoms, many of which might become permanent. Brain injuries can affect employment and can generate massive medical expenses.
3. Broken bones
People often brace for a crash when they see one coming which puts them at risk of breaking bones. Even if they do not, the force generated by the collision can result in fractures.
Broken bones generally take at least eight weeks, if not more, to heal. In some cases, they may require surgery. People may have extensive medical expenses and a long-term employment gap after breaking a bone in a car crash.
Seeking compensation for lost wages, medical expenses and other losses after a motor vehicle collision can help people rebuild their lives after a car crash. Even rear-end collisions have the potential to be financially devastating for the people involved.