Motor vehicle crashes can lead to a host of injuries. While many of these are minor, others can result in long-term consequences for the victim. A need for immediate medical care and the possibility of needing to continue that care may be daunting, as not everyone is in a strong position to weather the financial burdens of such intervention.
Yet, the following four injuries that may occur in a car wreck are all potentially life-threatening. Prompt medical attention is critical, so you can’t let the thought of the financial impact stop you from seeking care, if you or a loved one has been affected as such.
Spinal cord injuries
Spinal cord injuries can result from the sudden and violent impact of a crash. These injuries can lead to long-term issues, such as paralysis. The effects of the injury are generally felt below the level of the injury. Anyone who’s suspected of having an injured spinal cord should not be moved until EMT’s or other first responders are on the scene to assess the injuries.
Internal bleeding
Internal bleeding may not be immediately obvious, which makes it particularly dangerous. This type of injury can result from blunt force trauma to organs such as the liver, spleen or kidneys. In most cases, a victim will experience abdominal pain and low blood pressure if they have internal bleeding. Immediate medical care is required to assess the situation, and identify any areas of bleeding. Highway crashes, ejection from the vehicle, and even airbag deployment are causes of this type of life-threatening injury.
Traumatic brain injuries
Traumatic brain injuries can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage. These injuries occur when the brain experiences a sudden jolt or blow, causing it to collide with the skull. Symptoms can include headaches, memory loss, confusion, loss of consciousness or coma. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for minimizing long-term neurological damage. A CT Scan, usually done at the Emergency Department, is the gold standard to rule out any type of brain bleed. Specialized follow up care is required, even for concussive injuries. Be sure to tell your medical provider whether you have suffered from any previous type of head injury, including concussions suffered as a child, or when playing sports. Each successive concussion has the potential of causing even greater harm to the brain.
Amputations
Amputations can occur during the crash or result from surgical intervention to save a person’s life when limbs are too damaged to heal. A partial amputation means the body part remains partially attached, usually through soft tissue. A complete amputation means there’s no tissue connected the amputated part and the body. Blood loss and shock are concerns with this injury. In the event of uncontrolled bleeding, a tourniquet may be required to halt dangerous blood loss. Many local Red Cross chapters provide civilian training for the proper use of a tourniquet, and other life-saving actions that can be implemented in a serious car crash.
Conclusion
Victims of serious car crashes must seek immediate medical attention. Furthermore, it is always best reach out to a trusted attorney to discuss your rights and responsibilities after a serious collision involving injuries.
