Injuries Associated with Drunk Driving Accidents

Drunk driving accidents can cause damage to your body that may not be immediately visible. Because automobile collisions involve a great deal of force being applied very rapidly, the direction and amount of force can cause damage to your body by twisting and bending it in ways it is not meant to bend. Here are some of the most common drunk driving accident injuries:

Bruising/Contusions

Even the most minor of car accidents can cause bruises. Bruises are rarely serious injuries requiring medical attention and will generally heal within a week or two.

Whiplash

A car accident can cause your body to move in ways that it is not meant to and at speeds that it should not move. If you experience pain or discomfort in your neck and back after a collision, it is likely that you have sustained whiplash. These strains to your muscles and ligaments can be painful and take several weeks to recover.

 Neck/Back Injuries

Similar to whiplash injuries, the intense and rapid force that your body experiences during a collision can cause serious damage to your body that may not be immediately apparent. These types of injuries can include herniations or ruptures of the discs in your spine. If pain persists after several days, or if you have a history of neck or back injuries or problems, consult with a medical professional to see if you may have sustained a herniated disc. These injuries, while not always permanent can take a long time to completely heal.

Concussions

It’s common for an accident victim to hit their head on parts of their car, which can cause a concussion. Prompt treatment for any kind of head injury is crucial.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

A traumatic brain injury can have life-altering effects and change the way your brain functions, handles information, and processes emotions. While you may recover from a brain injury to some extent, depending on the type and severity of the damage, treating it may be a lifelong process.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

When we undergo a situation of extreme stress, like a car accident, there is the potential to develop emotional and mental conditions such as PTSD. Symptoms many experience can include a new fear of driving, aversion to certain sounds or images that are associated with the collision, or even sleeping problems due to anxiety or nightmares. Treatment is your best option, as psychologists and therapists can help you combat PTSD.

 Broken Bones

There are many ways an impact can cause your bones to be put under stress it can’t withstand. Sometimes the very devices meant to keep you safe can cause injury. For instance, your seatbelt may fracture some of your ribs. Broken bones are common injuries and rarely permanent or life-threatening. That being said, some fractures may require surgery to set the bone and place hardware to help your bones heal.

Internal Bleeding

Because organs are delicate, the impact of a car accident can damage them. These serious injuries are common in high-speed collisions.