Rear-end collisions can happen in a split second while sitting at a red light, slowing down in traffic, or even pulling into a parking space.
These accidents can occur anywhere, from a local street in Marion to congested highways like I-75. No one place is immune to these types of crashes. While these incidents might seem like simple fender benders, the injuries they cause are often anything but minor.
Many people experience serious symptoms after a car crash, even when the damage to the vehicle appears minimal. Here are some of the most common injuries after a rear-end accident and why you should not ignore them.
Whiplash
Whiplash might sound like a minor neck ache, but in reality, it can be painful and long-lasting. When a car is struck from behind, your head is violently thrown forward and then snapped back, putting intense strain on the neck muscles, ligaments, and spine.
Symptoms may not show up right away. Many people may feel okay the day of the accident. After a few hours or overnight, they can wake up sore, stiff, or dizzy. The warning signs of whiplash include:
- Neck pain and reduced range of motion
- Headaches, especially at the base of the skull
- Shoulder and upper back discomfort
- Tingling or numbness in the arms
In some cases, these symptoms can last for weeks or months.
Back and Spine Injuries
The sudden jolt of a rear-end crash can cause damage to the discs and vertebrae in your spine. Some people walk away thinking they just “tweaked” something. However, these incidents can lead to a herniated disc or spinal misalignment.
Back injuries may show up as:
- Persistent lower back pain
- Muscle spasms
- Pain that radiates into the legs or feet
- Difficulty sitting, standing, or walking for extended periods
If your back pain does not resolve within a few days, you want to get checked out. Spinal injuries can worsen over time if left untreated.
Head Injuries and Concussions
Even if you did not hit your head on the steering wheel or window, a concussion is still possible.
The rapid motion of your brain inside your skull during impact can cause damage, even without a direct blow. Some signs of a concussion or mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) include:
- Trouble concentrating
- Memory problems
- Dizziness or nausea
- Mood swings or irritability
- Sensitivity to light and noise
These symptoms can be subtle at first, but they may interfere with your work, relationships, and daily life. You should always take potential injuries seriously and consult a medical provider for a full evaluation.
Soft Tissue Injuries
After a rear-end collision, you might notice soreness or swelling in your shoulders, arms, hips, or legs.
These are often soft tissue injuries. This is damage caused to the muscles, tendons, and ligaments by the body being thrown forward or twisted.
You might experience:
- Muscle stiffness
- Bruising
- Reduced range of motion
- General aches and pains
While these injuries may not appear on an X-ray, they can limit mobility.
Facial and Dental Injuries
In higher-speed rear-end accidents, your face may come into contact with the steering wheel, dashboard, or airbag.
This can cause:
- Broken teeth
- Nose or jaw fractures
- Cuts and bruises
- Eye injuries
Unfortunately, these types of injuries may need long-term treatment or cosmetic surgery. As you deal with the aftereffects, they can severely affect your confidence.
Emotional Trauma
For many accident victims, the focus is on physical injuries after a crash, but this experience can shake you emotionally. Some people develop anxiety around driving, experience panic attacks, or avoid getting in a car.
If you are struggling emotionally after a crash, this is normal. You may need to get mental health support to help work through the mental and emotional toll of the accident.
Get the Legal Help You Need
From lingering neck pain to mounting medical bills, it is not always easy to bounce back from a rear-end accident. Along with injuries, these accidents can leave you with substantial medical bills.
Fortunately, you have legal options. You may be able to hold the responsible party accountable for their actions and get compensation for your losses.
At Prince Law Firm, we are here to assist. We will evaluate your potential claim and help you take those next steps.
