Car accidents cause harm to hundreds of thousands of people in Texas every year. In fact, a recent statistics report by the Texas Department of Transportation stated that a car crash happens every 61 seconds. While some injuries that result from car crashes may be visible immediately, sometimes they may show up after days or even weeks. This is why you should get medical attention immediately after the car accident, even when you think you’re not hurt.
6 Hidden Injuries After a Car Accident in Texas
Traumatic brain injuries
When a car accident occurs, your head may whip back and forth or strike something in the car. Your head’s impact may cause traumatic brain injury or TBI, and this injury is often insidious as it is not always noticeable immediately after the car accident. It may take weeks or months for other people to notice some changes like forgetfulness, personality changes, or impatience.
When a person suffers a concussion after an accident or experiences frequent headaches, they should watch out for TBI signs and seek medical assistance immediately.
Herniated discs
Neck and brain strains are also referred to as whiplash, and they’re very common injuries in car accidents. However, these injuries can sometimes become more serious than a mild strain. A collision force can be particularly strong and cause the tissue between the vertebrae to rupture, which creates a herniated disc. The herniated disc may put pressure on the inflamed nerves from the spine, causing severe pain, loss of control of muscles in the arms and legs, and even loss of feeling.
While the pain from herniated discs may occur immediately after the accident, sometimes they may appear weeks or even months later. Treatment for herniated discs often includes surgery, which means that you will miss work and other activities as you recuperate. Additionally, herniated discs can sometimes cause long-term disability.
Shoulder injuries
Because the car seat belt can only go over one shoulder, when an accident takes place, more pressure is exerted on the area as you’re suddenly pushed forward during the crash. The pressure may also twist your body and cause damage to muscles and tendons in your shoulder.
Although these types of injuries may result in bruises and strains, you may need to undergo surgery to repair the torn muscles in more serious cases. When left untreated, these injuries may become more painful.
Knee injuries
In most car accidents, the driver and passenger may be pushed forward, suddenly knocking their knees on the dashboard. This impact may cause knee injuries. Sometimes, you may not realize that the cartilage surrounding the knee may be damaged, and in such a case, you may need surgery to repair the damage. If the injuries are severe, your physician may also recommend physical therapy.
While scrapes or bruises on the knee may be visible after a car accident, more subtle injuries may take more time to develop enough inflammation for them to show.
Psychological injuries
A serious car accident can be traumatic, which means that it can also impact your emotional and psychological state. After a car crash, you may develop PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) or fear driving your car or even sitting in a vehicle.
When a car accident causes severe psychological effects, you will want to stay home or even be unable to drive or use your car. If you’re in such a situation, you need to see a psychologist to help you cope. However, the process may take time, and it can add to your medical expenses. According to the American Family Physician, it is better to deal with psychological trauma after a car accident sooner than later to help you heal sooner. Getting help immediately after an accident is also less expensive, less time-consuming, and also more effective.
Nerve or tissue injuries
Auto accidents often cause nerve and tissue damage, which causes numbness or tingling in the shoulder or neck. A pinched nerve can be painful, and when left untreated, it can lead to long-term complications. Seeking neurological consultation after an accident is important, and your physician will recommend a combination of nerve-blocking medication and physical therapy.
A Personal Injury Attorney Can Help You
Hidden injuries that result from a car accident can be very serious. To ensure that you or your loved one has enough time to heal, you may want to hire a knowledgeable personal injury attorney. If you have been in a car accident in Texas, contact one of our aggressive Johnson Garcia LLP personal injury attorneys today or call 832-400-6094 to schedule a free consultation.
