Did you know that 75 percent of accidents in Alabama occur in urban areas? Zooming through the streets of Birmingham in your car can be both liberating and exciting. But when it comes to road accidents, no one is invincible.
Whether you are a cautious driver or not, the aftermath of an accident can leave you with life-altering injuries that may affect your quality of life forever. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through some of the most common car accident injuries prevalent in Birmingham, AL, so buckle up and read on!
The Most Common Car Accident Injuries
There are a number of different car accident injuries that can occur in Birmingham, AL. However, some are more common than others. Here are some of the most common injuries that occur in car accidents in the city:
Whiplash
Whiplash is a neck injury that occurs when the head is suddenly jerked forward or backward. It is one of the most common car accident injuries, particularly in rear-end collisions. Symptoms of whiplash include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue.
Broken Bones
Broken bones are another common type of injury that can occur in a car accident. They can happen when the force of the impact is too much for the bone to withstand. Commonly broken bones after a car accident include ribs, wrists, and ankles.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries include any damage to the muscles, tendons, or ligaments in the body. They are often caused by the impact of a seatbelt during a collision. Symptoms of soft tissue injuries include pain, bruising, and swelling.
Internal Injuries
Internal injuries occur when there is damage to organs inside the body. They can be very serious and even life-threatening. Common internal injuries after a car accident include damage to the lungs, liver, and kidneys.
How to Prevent Car Accident Injuries
There are several things you can do to help prevent car accident injuries:
- Wear your seatbelt at all times. This is the number one way to reduce injuries and fatalities in car accidents.
- Be aware of your surroundings and be cautious when driving, especially in areas where there is a lot of traffic or bad weather conditions.
- Obey the speed limit and never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Avoid distracted driving by putting away your cell phone and other distractions before getting behind the wheel.
- Make sure your vehicle is properly maintained and that your tires are in good condition.
What to Do When You’ve Been Injured in a Car Accident
You can’t always avoid an accident, so what steps should you take if you are injured in one? If you’ve been injured in a car accident, there are a few things you should do:
Seek Medical Attention
Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s important to get checked out by a doctor. Some injuries, such as whiplash, may not be immediately apparent.
Notify Your Insurance Company and Gather Evidence
You’ll need to start a claim and begin the process of getting reimbursed for your medical expenses and other damages.
If possible, take photos of the accident scene and your injuries. Get the contact information of any witnesses who saw what happened. And be sure to save all receipts related to your accident, including for medical care, vehicle repairs, and lost wages from missed work.
Talk to an Attorney
Take the time to schedule a consult with an experienced car accident lawyer in Birmingham, AL. An attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options and can fight for the maximum compensation you deserve under the law.
Get the Legal Help You Need
Car accidents can result in serious and even life-threatening injuries. By understanding the most common car accident injuries in Birmingham, AL, drivers are better able to protect themselves and their passengers from these serious risks.
If you or a loved one has been involved in an incident resulting in injury, it is important to seek medical care right away and contact an experienced attorney who can help guide you through the legal process so that you receive compensation for your losses.
Are you ready to start your personal injury claim? Contact us for a free consultation on your car accident case today.