There are more drivers on the roads than ever before. Combine this with higher rates of dangerous driving and texting while driving, and it is easy to see while 2016 was one of the deadliest years on record for US roads.
It is no secret that road traffic accidents are one of the leading causes of injuries (and deaths) each year in the US. In 2016, the US’s car accident death rate jumped to a whooping 40,000 deaths, which indicates a six percent rise since 2015 in traffic-related deaths.
The fact is that as well as relating in loss of life, car crashes also often result in a range of injuries, some serious and some not so serious. Bearing that in mind, the question is what are the most common injuries seen on US roads?
1. Back and head injuries
By far the most common injuries seen in car accidents are back and head injuries. Because drivers and passengers are seated when driving, when a car crash occurs, often heads and backs are hit onto things with force, which is the case of most injuries. Hitting your head at high speed can cause all sorts of injuries, from traumatic brain injuries to bleeding wounds. Head injuries can lead to skull fractures, brain injuries, hearing problems, and vision problems, among other issues. Back injuries are also common, with spinal injuries being incredibly serious as they can lead to nerve damage and reduced sensation of limbs. When it comes to seeking personal injury help, one of the most common reasons for doing so is because of a traumatic spinal injury with life-changing consequences. Back and head injuries can be extremely severe, or even deadly in some cases.
2. Neck and chest injuries
The most well-known car accident injury is whiplash, which is caused by fast, sudden movement of the neck when a vehicle is hit by another car or has to brake suddenly. This kind of damage can lead to long-term neck problems, as whiplash can cause serious damage to the nerves and muscles within the neck. This kind of movement can also lead to problems with the vocal chords – many people who have been involved in car accidents suffer from short-term vocal chord paralysis, leaving them unable to talk. Many serious car accident injuries impact the chest area; this can be due to the seatbelt restraining the body in this area or due to the chest being hit with the airbag when the car accident occurs. Blunt force trauma can cause broken ribs and punctured lungs.
3. Other injuries
Other common injuries include damage to the hands, arms, legs and feet. This can be cuts and bruises or serious fractures; it completely depends on the accident that occurs and how fast both vehicles involved were going. These injuries can be superficial or more serious; again it depends on the details of the accident itself.
The fact is that car accidents are a common occurrence, with thousands happening each year across the US. In many instances, loss of life is caused. However, it is more common for injuries to arise from a car accident, such as those injuries mentioned above.