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Car accidents and the hidden injuries that they can cause

On Behalf of | Feb 2, 2023 | Auto Accidents, Personal Injury

Car accidents in Indiana and Illinois can be traumatic and cause various injuries, some of which may not be immediately apparent. These types of injuries are known as hidden injuries and can include internal injuries, soft tissue injuries and emotional trauma.

Internal injuries caused by car accidents

Internal injuries can occur when the force of the impact from Indiana motor vehicle accidents causes internal organs to be damaged. These injuries can be challenging to diagnose because they don’t always present with visible symptoms. Some common internal injuries that can occur in a car accident include:

  • Traumatic brain injury: A head injury that can cause a range of symptoms, like confusion, memory loss, and difficulty with coordination.
  • Spinal cord injury: A severe injury that can cause paralysis or loss of sensation in the arms and legs.
  • Rib fractures: Broken ribs can cause severe pain and damage internal organs.
  • Punctured lung: A lung punctured by a broken rib or other sharp objects can cause difficulty breathing and chest pain.

Soft tissue injuries

Soft tissue injuries are another type of hidden injury that can occur in a car accident. These types of injuries include sprains, strains and contusions and can be caused by the force of the impact or by being thrown around inside the vehicle. Some common soft tissue injuries that can occur in a car accident include:

  • Whiplash: A neck injury occurs when the head is suddenly and forcefully thrown forward and backward. This can cause pain and stiffness in the neck, shoulders, and upper back.
  • Back injuries: The force of the impact can cause injuries to the back, such as a herniated disc, which can cause pain, numbness, and tingling in the arms and legs.
  • Knee injuries: The force of the impact can cause injuries to the knee, such as a torn ligament or meniscus, which can cause pain and difficulty walking.

Hidden emotional issues caused by accidents

Emotional trauma is another hidden injury that can occur in a car accident. This can include symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These emotional injuries can be just as debilitating as physical injuries. They can have a profound impact on a person’s quality of life.

Some injuries may not appear for days or weeks after an accident. Be sure to mention the incident to your doctor to help with the diagnosis.