Motor vehicle accidents happen every day, and they can happen anywhere in Hawaii. Unfortunately, even a minor collision can lead to significant injuries. It is important to be prepared and know the most common ones:
1. Head injuries
Head injuries are often the most serious casualty of car accidents due to their tendency for lifelong effects on motor skills, moods, and cognitive function. However, they are also the most common type of injury in car accidents and the most preventable. While head injuries don’t always mean a concussion, they’re always best treated with caution and observation.
2. Whiplash
Whiplash injuries are often caused by the constant jarring of the body’s neck, shoulder, and back during an impact. This can cause not only pain in your back but also pain in your neck and headaches. Whiplash can also be caused by sudden acceleration, deceleration, or bad road conditions such as potholes.
3. Burn injuries
A carbon monoxide leak or an explosion in a vehicle can cause significant burns to the occupant’s skin, face, and even lungs. These types of burns can take months to heal and even some years after an accident.
4. Internal bleeding
Internal bleeding is a common injury in car accidents because of the nature of the impact. In most cases, it is due to your organs rupturing during an accident. If you experience internal bleeding from a car accident, know that it can be fatal if not treated promptly.
5. Lacerations
Car accidents can cause all sorts of lacerations in your body. These include cuts and abrasions on your arms, legs, and chest. Sometimes, they can be severe enough to become infected if not treated within a certain period. Most cuts are usually superficial, but they can still lead to infection if left untreated for too long.
Car crash injuries can be very serious, depending on the accident’s severity. However, most accidents are largely preventable if we are attentive and cautious of other vehicles around us. Consulting a doctor immediately after an accident is highly recommended to ensure that you receive proper treatment.