Distracted driving claims thousands of lives every year. In fact, it’s the leading cause of car accidents in the United States.

Even if you survive, there’s a high chance that you will experience injuries. In some cases, it might even lead to permanent disabilities. For example, it might affect your ability to walk.

Want to familiarize yourself with some of the most common car accident injuries? If so, you’re on the right page! We’ll be going over some of them below.

Read the rest of the guide to learn more!

6 of the Most Common Car Accident Injuries

Car crashes can result in various injuries, some more serious than others. Given that, it's not surprising to know that some people struggle with pain and suffering afterward.

Anyway, here's what you need to know.

1. Back Injuries

Car accidents often cause lower back injuries. For example, you might suffer a sprain or a herniated disc.

Spinal fractures are another possibility. Symptoms include back pain, tingling, numbness, weakness, and muscle spasms. Depending on the severity, surgery may be necessary.

2. Neck Injuries

Neck injuries such as whiplash are commonly caused by car accidents. They occur when the head moves forward and backward suddenly with great force.

Aside from pain, it can cause stiffness in the neck, blurred vision, dizziness, or ringing in the ears.

3. Chest Injuries

Drivers, in particular, are prone to chest injuries. Why? Your position behind the steering wheel makes you more susceptible.

For example, the blunt force trauma of hitting the steering wheel can cause collapsed lungs or broken ribs. In some cases, it can even trigger cardiac arrest.

4. Internal Bleeding

The blunt trauma of a vehicle accident can cause internal injuries. For instance, it can cause lacerations to the spleen, liver, and other organs, all of which can result in internal bleeding.

Symptoms include pain, dizziness, purple skin, fainting, and swelling.

5. Arms and Legs Injuries

The same forces that throw your head around in a car collision can injure your arms and legs as well. For instance, they might throw them against the door or windshield.

Depending on the nature of the crash, the injuries can be anything from minor bruises or scrapes to severe fractures.

6. Scrapes and Cuts

Loose objects such as eyeglasses, purses, and cell phones will immediately become projectiles in a car crash. In other words, they can easily hit your body and cause injuries.

Fortunately, most of these scrapes and cuts are relatively minor. With that said, some may require stitches.

Preventing Car Accident Injuries

And there you have it—a short guide on some of the most common car accident injuries. As you can see, collisions can lead to various issues, some of which may require immediate medical treatment.

Looking for more posts like this? If so, be sure to check out the rest of the page!