Car accidents happen every day across Tennessee and leave victims with injuries that can change their lives forever. These crashes result in various types of physical harm, from minor bruises to severe trauma that requires extensive medical treatment. Vehicle collisions create tremendous force that can damage the human body in multiple ways. Each year, thousands of people in Tennessee and the Chattanooga area face the challenge of recovering from common injuries from car accidents.
The impact of a collision affects different parts of the body depending on the type of crash, speed, and safety equipment used. Some injuries become apparent immediately, while others may not show symptoms until hours or days later. Victims often find themselves dealing with medical bills, lost wages, and pain that interferes with their daily activities. Recognizing these injuries and seeking proper medical attention is crucial for both health and legal reasons. Our Chattanooga car accident lawyers explain some of the most common injuries that result from car accidents.
Head and Brain Injuries in Chattanooga
Head injuries represent some of the most serious consequences of motor vehicle accidents. The sudden impact can cause the brain to move inside the skull, leading to various levels of damage. A Chattanooga car accident attorney sees these cases regularly, as they often result in significant medical expenses and long-term complications.
Traumatic brain injuries occur when the head strikes an object or when the brain experiences severe jolting. These injuries can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage that affects cognitive function, memory, and motor skills. Victims may experience headaches, dizziness, confusion, and changes in personality or behavior.
Skull fractures represent another serious form of head trauma. These breaks in the skull bone can damage the brain tissue underneath and may require surgical intervention. Even without visible external injuries, internal bleeding or swelling can create life-threatening situations.
The symptoms of head injuries may not appear immediately after the accident. Some victims feel fine initially but develop problems hours or days later. This delayed onset makes it essential to seek medical evaluation even when head trauma seems minor.
Neck and Spinal Injuries
The neck and spine are particularly vulnerable during car accidents due to the sudden forces involved. Whiplash is one of the most common car crash injury types, occurring when the head snaps forward and backward rapidly. This motion can damage muscles, ligaments, and discs in the neck.
Spinal cord injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis, depending on the location and severity of the damage. These injuries often require immediate emergency treatment and extensive rehabilitation. The costs associated with spinal injuries can be overwhelming, often reaching hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Cervical spine injuries affect the neck area and can cause problems with arm and hand function.
These injuries may require long-term medical care and can significantly impact a person’s ability to work or perform daily activities.
Chest and Torso Injuries
The chest area often bears a significant impact during collisions, especially when seat belts and airbags deploy. While these safety features save lives, they can also cause injuries in the process. Broken ribs are common, and while they may seem minor, they can puncture organs or cause breathing difficulties.
Internal organ damage can occur without obvious external signs. The liver, spleen, and kidneys are particularly susceptible to injury from blunt force trauma. These injuries can be life-threatening and may require emergency surgery.
Lung injuries, including punctured lungs or collapsed lungs, can result from broken ribs or sudden pressure changes during impact.
These conditions require immediate medical attention and can cause severe breathing problems.
Heart injuries, though less common, can occur in severe accidents. The heart can be bruised or damaged, leading to irregular heartbeats or other cardiac problems that may not be immediately apparent.
Arm and Leg Injuries
Extremity injuries are among the most visible types of injuries from car accidents. Broken bones in the arms and legs can range from simple fractures that heal with casting to complex breaks requiring surgical repair with pins, plates, or screws.
Soft tissue injuries affect muscles, tendons, and ligaments throughout the arms and legs. These injuries can cause pain, swelling, and a limited range of motion. While they may not seem as serious as broken bones, they can take months to heal properly.
Lacerations and cuts from broken glass or twisted metal can cause significant scarring and may require plastic surgery. Deep cuts can damage nerves, blood vessels, and muscles, leading to permanent disability.
Joint injuries, particularly to knees, shoulders, and wrists, can be especially problematic. These complex structures may require multiple surgeries and extensive physical therapy to restore function.
Get in Touch with Us in Chattanooga
The team at Dennis & Winningham has extensive experience handling car accident cases throughout Tennessee. We understand the challenges accident victims face and work tirelessly to secure the compensation they deserve. Our Chattanooga personal injury attorneys know how to build strong cases and are prepared to take your case to trial if necessary to achieve the best possible outcome.
Contact Dennis & Winningham today for a consultation to discuss your case and learn about your legal options. Time is limited under Tennessee law, so call us now to protect your rights and start the process of getting your life back on track.
