There are more cars on the roads today than ever before. Even though traffic accidents have decreased over the last two decades, there are still a high number of traffic-related injuries and deaths. According to the Alabama Department of Transportation, drivers in Alabama have a one in three chance of getting involved in a vehicle accident that results in an injury or fatality over their lifetimes. Traffic accidents occur every 3.55 minutes in the state, and someone is hurt in a crash about every 12 minutes. Those who suffer injuries in car accidents in Mobile, Alabama may be entitled to compensation for their damages.
Injuries Caused by Car Accidents in Mobile
When someone suffers an injury following a car accident in Mobile, AL, the severity may range from mild to severe. The type of injury that occurred and other factors will determine the severity of injuries suffered in accidents. Some other factors include the use of a seat belt, airbag deployment, the speed the vehicles were traveling, and the location of impact on the vehicle and the position of the driver and passengers at the time of the crash.
Generally speaking, two categories of injuries may occur: those caused by an impact and those that penetrate the body. Impact injuries are caused by contact with something, usually the windshield or side of the vehicle. Another example of an impact injury is when someone is ejected from the vehicle. Penetrating injuries are cuts, bruises and broken bones that cause the skin to break. The shattered glass that embeds into the skin is one example of a penetrating injury.
Find out how injured parties seek compensation for their car accidents by contacting Charles McCorquodale Law.
Back and Neck Injuries
Back and neck injuries are often common in rear-end collisions. Those who get hurt may suffer from whiplash. Whiplash is a name for a neck injury that happens when there is an impact that causes the neck to move back and forth in an unnatural manner. It is most often the result of rear-end collisions or accidents because of the sudden jerking motion that the back is thrown into on impact.
If you suffer from whiplash, you may recover after a few months, or the injury may linger for a longer time. Symptoms may not appear immediately but include headaches, back and neck pain and stiffness. Treatment includes medication and physical therapy. In some cases, neck and back injuries are permanent, and victims might have pain for the rest of their lives. Alternative treatment includes chiropractic care. If you suffered a neck or back injury, it is more likely that the injury can recur.
Head Trauma
Head injuries occur when the vehicle takes an unexpected turn or comes to an abrupt stop. Airbags and seat belts are helpful in reducing head injuries in car wrecks in Mobile, Alabama. Even if these devices are implemented, head injuries may still occur. You could hit your head on the windshield or side of the vehicle. Head trauma can also happen even if the head does not suffer an impact. Head injuries may be open or closed. Serious head trauma might require emergency surgery to relieve pressure on the brain as it swells. Bruising to the brain is a severe injury. Recovery and outcome of a patient with head trauma are varied and depend greatly on the severity and location of the bruise and how quickly the treatment followed.
An open head injury happens when the head comes into contact with something that results in a scrape of cut. An open head wound indicates the need for further evaluation to determine whether there is any bruising to the brain. A closed injury is more difficult to assess because there is no outer indication of an injury. The brain can hit against the inside of the skull causing an internal contusion. Head trauma is a serious medical emergency and even if quickly treated, it could result in permanent brain damage.
Bruises and Cuts
While usually minor, cuts and bruises can be painful and may take some time to heal. Deep or large lacerations cause blood loss and may require stitches. They could leave scars after they heal. Scars, especially those on the face, need medical and cosmetic care as they mend. Skin grafts provide stabilization to areas where the skin is excessively damaged. Later, cosmetic surgery can be done to reduce the scar’s visibility. Sometimes disfigurement is unable to be repaired and remains permanent.
Other Bodily Injuries from Car Accidents
Other types of injuries might happen as the result of a car accident in Mobile, Alabama. Injuries to the chest caused by the seat belt typically cause only bruising, but can also result in broken ribs. An impact with the steering wheel may damage internal organs and tissues and requires immediate medical evaluation. Injuries to the extremities occur most often from side impacts. Entrapment happens when the car is crushed around the victim. These impacts cause broken or shattered bones that may be very severe.
What to Do If You Were Injured in Mobile, Alabama
First and foremost, if you were involved in a serious car accident in Mobile, you need to get medical treatment. It is important to note that not all injuries are apparent immediately following a crash. Head injuries and internal injuries, for instance, may not be noticed right away. Back and neck injuries can take some time to show up. For these reasons, it is advisable to seek medical care, even if you do not feel any pain. When you visit the doctor or hospital, let them know that the injuries are due to a car crash to ensure it is made part of the medical record. Get treatment as soon as possible after the accident. Retain all documentation and bills regarding your medical evaluation and treatment.
Meet with an Attorney to Discuss Mobile, AL, Car Accidents
Treatment of injuries after a car accident can be difficult and expensive. Although at least a portion of your treatment could be covered by insurance, the person responsible for causing the accident should be liable for all expenses. In many instances, you may be able to recover compensation for injuries including punitive damages such as money for lost wages and pain and suffering. If you were injured in a car accident in Mobile, Alabama, contact Charles McCorquodale Law to discuss your case today.
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