For some, life-long disabilities and severe injuries will be the reality.
You are more likely to suffer a serious injury if the accident is severe. You should still seek medical attention even if you think you are fine. This will allow you to receive a complete diagnosis. You can get compensation for your losses if your accident was the result of someone else’s negligence. This includes medical bills and lost income.
These are the most common car accident injuries in Illinois.
Traumatic Brain Injury
Traumatic brain injury (TBI), if not treated, can lead to permanent damage. Brain injuries can cause headaches, cognitive impairment, mood changes, and sleep problems.
Concussions
Concussions can occur when the head is directly hit, as if you were to slam it against the steering wheel or the door of your car in a crash. They can also happen with a side-toside or front-to back motion. Concussions are not always obvious right after an accident. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience a headache, dizziness or intense pressure in the head.
Whiplash
The tendons and muscle in your neck are strained when your neck whips after a sudden stop. You may experience stiffness and pain, and a limited range of motion.
Herniated Disc
You will experience pain and nerve injuries if one or more of your vertebrae ruptures or shifts out of position. Herniated disks may require surgery, but you’ll still feel pain for the rest your life.
Broken Bones
When a car accident occurs, the force can cause broken bones to occur in the hands, arms, legs, or feet. If you feel pain when you move, or notice swelling, bruising and redness and you are unable to move, then you need to get X-rays.
Broken Ribs
Even more serious are broken ribs, which can puncture vital organs. You should not refuse medical attention at the scene if you are involved in a serious car accident.
Internal Bleeding
Some accidents result in obvious injuries. Internal bleeding, however, is often not visible from the outside. Blood could build up under the skull and put pressure on your brain if not treated. The spleen and other organs could be affected. Internal bleeding can even be fatal if not treated.
Post-Traumatic stress disorder
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a common disorder that develops when someone experiences a traumatic experience. PTSD is diagnosed in many car accident victims. It can make them afraid to drive and bring back terrifying memories when they’re behind the wheels.
What Your injuries mean for your claim
You can claim compensation if a driver is negligent and causes an accident. There is no formula in Illinois to determine the amount of compensation you will receive for a car accident.
Your injuries will be assessed based on their severity and impact on your life. After the accident you will be faced with medical bills. You may also need costly surgeries to repair damage, or physical therapy in order to recover. You may be suffering from mental anguish and have lost your mobility, which prevents you from doing things that you used to love.
Keep all receipts for expenses incurred in the accident. Don’t forget, however, that a claim for car accidents is not limited to economic damages. You may also be entitled to compensation for non-economic damage.
Law Office of Jack M. Shapiro P.C. is the place to go if you are looking for a Buffalo Grove car accident lawyer. Learn more about your rights and how you can get the maximum compensation.