Rear-end crashes are among the most common types of car accidents, and they often result in a wide range of injuries. The sudden impact of one vehicle colliding with another from behind creates a significant force that can lead to severe and long-lasting consequences for the driver and passengers of the impacted vehicle.
If you were involved in a rear-end collision, our lawyer at Cameron Law can help you pursue compensation for your medical bills and other expenses and losses, regardless of the type of injury you have suffered. Contact our rear-end crash lawyer to discuss your particular situation.
The Most Common Injuries in Rear-End Crashes
Let’s discuss the most common types of rear-end crash injuries and their potential effects on those involved. Understanding these injuries can help individuals who have experienced a rear-end crash navigate the physical, emotional, and legal aspects of their recovery.
1. Whiplash
Perhaps the most well-known injury associated with rear-end crashes is whiplash. According to RUSH University, over two million Americans are diagnosed with whiplash every year. A large percentage of these cases are the result of motor vehicle accidents, including rear-end crashes.
This injury occurs when the head and neck are suddenly and forcefully thrown back and forth, causing damage to the soft tissues, such as muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Symptoms of whiplash may include neck pain and stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and difficulties concentrating or remembering. While many cases of whiplash are relatively mild and resolve within a few weeks or months, some individuals may experience chronic pain and long-lasting complications.
2. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
A rear-end collision can result in a traumatic brain injury, particularly in cases where the head makes contact with the interior parts of the vehicle or experiences rapid acceleration and deceleration. TBI can range in severity from mild concussions to severe brain damage that may lead to lasting cognitive, sensory, or motor impairments. Symptoms of TBI can include loss of consciousness, confusion, headaches, memory problems, blurred vision, and difficulty balancing.
3. Soft-Tissue Damage
In addition to whiplash, other types of soft-tissue damage commonly occur in rear-end crashes. Muscles, ligaments, and tendons throughout the body can be strained, sprained, or torn due to the force of the collision. Depending on the severity of the damage, individuals may experience pain, swelling, and limited mobility in the affected areas. Physical therapy, pain management, and possible surgical interventions may be needed to address these injuries.
4. Back and Spinal Cord Injuries
The impact of a rear-end crash can cause considerable harm to the structures of the back and spinal cord. Injuries may include herniated discs, compression fractures, and dislocations, which can result in localized pain, numbness, and weakness. In more severe cases, spinal cord damage can lead to partial or complete paralysis, requiring extensive medical care and ongoing support.
5. Neck and Shoulder Injuries
In addition to whiplash, the neck and shoulder areas are particularly vulnerable in rear-end crashes, as the force of the impact can cause injuries such as sprains, strains, fractures, or dislocations. These injuries can lead to chronic pain and reduced range of motion, which can severely impact an individual’s ability to carry out their daily activities or participate in their hobbies and sports.
6. Face and Eye Injuries
Individuals who are not adequately restrained or who experience a particularly forceful rear-end collision may come into contact with airbags, broken glass, or other debris that can cause facial lacerations, fractures, or eye injuries. In some instances, these injuries may be severe enough to result in disfigurement or vision loss.
