Car accidents can happen in an instant, but the physical consequences often last far longer. Even low-speed collisions can cause painful, life-altering injuries that require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. While the severity of harm depends on factors such as speed, impact angle, and whether seat belts or airbags were used, certain injuries occur more frequently than others. Below are the four most common types of injuries that result from car accidents — and why they demand immediate medical and legal attention. If you have been injured, it is critical to speak with a Thousand Oaks, CA car accident lawyer.
Whiplash And Other Soft Tissue Injuries
Whiplash is one of the most common injuries in car accidents, particularly in rear-end collisions. It occurs when the neck and head are suddenly forced backward and forward, straining or tearing muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Although many people associate whiplash with minor soreness, it can cause severe and long-lasting pain, headaches, dizziness, and even nerve damage.
Soft tissue injuries can also occur in other parts of the body. The sudden impact of a crash can cause strains, sprains, and bruising to the back, shoulders, and limbs. These injuries may not show up immediately — symptoms often develop hours or even days after the crash. Because they don’t always appear on X-rays, soft tissue injuries are sometimes dismissed or underestimated by insurers, making proper documentation and medical follow-up crucial for both recovery and any potential injury claim.
Head And Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are among the most serious consequences of a motor vehicle accident. They can occur when a person’s head strikes the steering wheel, dashboard, or window — or even when the brain is jolted violently within the skull without direct impact. TBIs range from mild concussions to severe brain trauma that can result in long-term cognitive or physical impairment.
Even a mild concussion can affect memory, concentration, mood, and sleep. More severe brain injuries may require surgery, lengthy hospitalization, and ongoing rehabilitation. In some cases, victims may never fully regain their previous level of functioning. Because brain injuries are not always immediately apparent, anyone involved in a collision should seek medical attention right away, especially if they experience confusion, nausea, blurred vision, or loss of consciousness.
Back And Spinal Cord Injuries
The spine absorbs much of the force in a car crash, which is why back injuries are so common. Herniated or bulging discs, spinal fractures, and nerve compression can lead to chronic pain, numbness, or even partial paralysis. These injuries often require extensive treatment such as physical therapy, steroid injections, or, in severe cases, surgery.
When the spinal cord itself is damaged, the consequences can be catastrophic. A spinal cord injury can result in partial or total paralysis below the site of injury, drastically altering a person’s quality of life. Beyond the physical limitations, victims often face emotional trauma and significant financial burdens from medical care and lost wages. Because these injuries can worsen over time, early diagnosis and treatment are essential.
Broken Bones And Fractures
Fractures are another common outcome of car accidents, caused by the immense force of impact or by being thrown against parts of the vehicle. Commonly broken bones include ribs, wrists, arms, legs, and pelvis. In more severe collisions, victims can suffer compound fractures, where the bone pierces the skin, creating a high risk of infection and permanent damage.
Broken ribs can be especially dangerous, as sharp bone fragments may puncture internal organs or the lungs. Even less severe fractures can take months to heal and may require surgery, physical therapy, or implanted hardware to stabilize the bone. The pain and mobility limitations associated with fractures often prevent victims from returning to work or normal activities for extended periods.
Call Goldberg Injury Lawyers Today
The aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming — physically, emotionally, and financially. From whiplash and concussions to broken bones and spinal injuries, these common injuries often require ongoing care and can have lasting consequences on a victim’s health and livelihood.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. Contact Goldberg Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation. Attorney Goldberg is a recognized authority on uninsured motorist and underinsured motorist law in California. In fact, he gets regular calls from other practicing attorneys on this particular topic. We can help protect your rights, guide you through the claims process, and fight for the full recovery you deserve.
