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Car accidents can be catastrophic and life-altering events for those involved. In addition to the emotional trauma and distress caused by an accident, individuals often suffer a range of physical injuries that can leave them with long-term damage and disabilities. In a car accident, there are generally three areas in which impact causes damage: the vehicle, the individual’s body (external), and their organs (internal).
Vehicle Impact
The first type of impact in a car accident is vehicle impact. When two vehicles collide, they undergo a tremendous amount of physical stress, often resulting in significant damage to the cars or trucks involved. Common vehicle damage includes:
- Broken windows
- Crumpled metal
- Damaged axles
- Shattered headlights
- Engine and transmission damage
In addition to the visible damage, there is often hidden damage, such as damaged suspension or frame damage, that could compromise a car’s structural integrity. This type of damage can result in the car being declared a ‘total loss’ by an insurance company.
Vehicle damage can be costly to fix, and depending on the severity of the damage, it may be impossible to repair the vehicle to its pre-accident condition.
External Impact
The second type of impact in a car accident is external impact, which refers to the effects of the collision on an individual's body. External impact injuries can range from minor bruises and cuts to severe lacerations, broken bones, and traumatic brain injuries. Some of the most common types of external impact injuries include:
- Whiplash
- Abrasions and lacerations
- Burns
- Contusions and bruises
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
External impact injuries can take days, weeks, or even months to heal, and in some cases, individuals may suffer from long-term complications that can have a significant impact on their quality of life. Seeking medical attention as soon as possible following an accident is essential to ensure that all injuries are diagnosed and treated appropriately.
Internal Impact
The third type of impact in a car accident is internal impact, which refers to the effects of the collision on an individual's organs, including the brain, heart, and lungs. Internal impact injuries are often the most severe and can be life-threatening. Some of the most common types of internal impact injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Concussions
- Organ damage (liver, spleen, heart, etc.)
- Internal bleeding
Internal injuries may not be immediately visible, and symptoms may not present themselves until days or even weeks after the accident. Seeking medical attention as soon as possible is critical in cases of internal injury as early intervention may prevent long-term damage or even death.
Seeking Compensation
If you’re involved in a car accident caused by another party's negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for damages and injuries. Compensation may cover the cost of medical bills, repair or replacement of a vehicle, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In order to seek compensation, it’s important to seek experienced legal representation as soon as possible.
An experienced car accident lawyer will work with you to gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and build a case that demonstrates the other party’s negligence. A skilled lawyer will also ensure that your rights are protected and work to obtain the maximum amount of compensation you deserve.
Car accidents can leave individuals with significant physical damage and emotional distress. Knowing the three types of impacts in a car accident – vehicle, external, and internal – is critical in understanding the full extent of the injuries that may have occurred.
Seeking medical attention, as well as experienced legal representation, is essential in ensuring that an individual receives the compensation they deserve for any damages and injuries incurred. Remember to always prioritize your health and safety following an accident and don’t hesitate to seek help from an experienced car accident attorney at Shapiro Law Firm, P.A..
If you were injured in a car accident, don’t wait to call Shapiro Law Firm, P.A. at (850) 629-7226. The sooner we get started on your case, the faster you can focus on healing.