Long Term Injury Implications of Minor Rear-End Collisions

 Posted on December 00, 0000 in Car Accidents

In the Chicago area, as the holiday season approaches, adverse driving conditions come with it. Shorter days can result in limited visibility, which can be especially problematic during the rush hour commute home from work. Additionally, lower temperatures can lead to snow, ice, and other hazards on the road.

While there are steps that drivers can take to increase their own safety during winter time driving, such as equipping their vehicles with snow tires and leaving extra space between themselves and other drivers, the bottom line is decreasing visibility and traction can result in an increase in rear-end collisions.

Often times, these seemingly minor collisions result in serious injury—whiplash, head trauma, and broken bones. If you or a loved one are injured in a rear-end collision this winter, it is important to contact an experienced Lake County personal injury attorney.

Common Injuries Due to Rear-End Collisions

Even at low speeds, a rear-end collision can cause serious injuries to those involved. The most common injury resulting from a rear-end collision is whiplash. Whiplash, which is medically referred to as a spraining of the neck, is routinely caused by the strong jerking motion that accompanies a rear-end collision. Symptoms of whiplash can go unnoticed for 24 hours or longer; however, the long-term ramifications of a neck sprain can be excruciating. Symptoms of a neck sprain can include neck stiffness, headaches, lower back pain, and dizziness.

While whiplash may be the most common injury associated with rear-end collisions, other serious injuries can occur. These include head trauma, broken or fractured ribs, and injuries to upper and lower extremities. In the case of rib injuries, symptoms include pain when twisting or rotating, difficulty breathing deeply, and increased pressure on or around the injured area.

The long term impacts of head trauma can be even more damaging, from light sensitivity to increased headaches, memory loss, and nausea. While these types of injuries may not be noticed at the time of the collision, all of these injuries can result in decreased efficiency in the workplace, loss of sleep, and increased physical and emotional stress. Finally, these types of injuries can result in financial burdens that were not considered at the time of the crash.

Financial Toll of Injuries

The aftermath of a minor car crash can be complicated, painful, and costly. Many people quantify the financial impacts of a minor rear-end crash as maintenance and repair costs, insurance spikes, etc. However, unanticipated medical costs can be the most expensive of all. These costs can include repeat physician visits, physical therapy, unexpected medical procedures, and loss of work hours. Loss of work can take a significant toll on a person’s financial well-being as well as their emotional health.

The Importance of a Legal Professional

All things considered, it is paramount that those injured in even the most minor of car crashes contact an experienced Lake County personal injury attorney. If you or a member of your family are injured in a rear-end collision this winter, call 847-662-3303 or contact us online to set up a free consultation. Dealing with the aftermath of a rear-end collision can be painful and complicated, let us do the heavy lifting.

Sources:

https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/guide/pain-management-whiplash

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/broken-ribs/symptoms-causes/syc-20350763