Rear-end crashes may not seem as serious as other types of collisions. People often believe that rear-end crashes primarily cause soft tissue injuries, such as whiplash. Soft tissue injuries can be more serious than people initially realize, making them more costly than people anticipate. However, there are also many more serious injuries possible in a rear-end crash scenario.
Research into nationwide collision statistics shows that rear-end crashes account for slightly less than one in five traffic fatalities. What other major injuries might follow rear-end collisions?
Rear-end crashes can cause permanent challenges
Most soft tissue injuries, including whiplash, resolve with minimal medical intervention within a few months. However, catastrophic injuries may not respond to treatment, resulting in permanent functional limitations and significant medical expenses.
Rear-end collisions can potentially cause complete or incomplete spinal cord injuries. Blunt-force trauma, penetrating injuries caused by debris and violent vehicle motions can injure the neck or back and possibly also the spinal cord.
Fractures are also possible after rear-end collisions. Occupants of either vehicle could be at risk of major broken bones or even crush injuries in some cases.
Finally, brain injuries have a strong association with rear-end crashes. People can hit their heads on steering columns, dashboards and windows, resulting in permanent damage to their brains caused by inflammation or bleeding.
Those recovering after a rear-end crash may need to give themselves time to determine if they have serious injuries. People with catastrophic injuries may need help evaluating insurance coverage and looking into other options for covering their costs. Reviewing crash circumstances with a legal professional can help those injured in rear-end collisions pursue compensation for the various losses they’ve sustained.