A fender bender — that is the term many people use to describe a rear-end crash. Fender benders have become synonymous with a minor car accident; however, rear-end crashes can result in traumatic and life-threatening injuries. Of course, your risk of suffering severe injuries increases as the speed of the vehicle behind you increases but any rear-end crash can result in serious injuries.
Insurance companies attempt to discount injuries to victims involved in low impact crashes where one car is rear-ended but personal injury attorneys see firsthand the damage that can result from a low-speed rear-end crash. Therefore, it is important that drivers and passengers in a rear-end crash be checked by a medical professional. Some injuries may not be readily visible or known immediately following the accident. The sooner the person documents the injury the better it is for the personal injury claim.
Below are several injuries that are common in rear-end crashes.
Rear-End Crash Injuries
- Whiplash – Whiplash is one of the most common injuries in a rear-end crash. Whiplash occurs when the head and neck are violently whipped back and forth from the impact of a rear collision. Whiplash can occur in a low-impact collision regardless of what the insurance company for the other driver may claim. Whiplash can result in severe, chronic pain and stiffness that prevents the victim from returning to normal activities.
- Back Injuries – Back injuries, including injury to the spinal cord and discs, are also common in rear-end crashes. Disk herniation is an injury that can prevent the victim from working and performing normal daily tasks. In some cases, physical therapy can help; however, some accident victims require back surgery to correct the problem.
- Hand, Arm, and Wrist Injuries – Because you have your hands on the steering wheel, the force of a rear-end crash can injury your hands, arms, and wrists. They also may become wedged between the airbag and the steering wheel or dashboard causing injury.
- Airbag and Seatbelt Injuries – Airbags and seatbelts save lives; however, they can also be the source of injury in a crash. In a low impact rear-end crash, airbags may fail to deploy causing the driver and passenger’s head and body to smash into the steering wheel, dash, and windows. Seatbelts can prevent you from being thrown from the vehicle or smashing into the dashboard and steering wheel; however, a rear-end crash can result in lacerations and bruises from the seatbelt.
The above injuries are just an overview of the common types of injuries we see in rear-end collisions. You should always seek medical attention following an accident of any type to protect your health and prevent minor injuries from becoming more serious.
Have You Been Injured in a New Orleans Rear-end Crash?
If you or your family member has been involved in a NoLA rear-end crash, contact the car accident attorneys of The Olinde Firm for a free case evaluation. We never charge you an attorney fee until and unless we win compensation for your damages and injuries. Call us today for your free legal consultation. Call (504) 587-1440 or 1-800-587-1889