Common Motor Vehicle Accident Injuries

If you’re involved in a car accident while driving on a New Jersey highway, you could experience a variety of injuries. These injuries might make it difficult to return to work, school or other activities. In the event that your accident was caused by another person’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills and other damages.

Whiplash is Among the Most Common Type of Accident Injury

Whiplash occurs when the head, neck or back is forced to move quickly in an unnatural manner. Symptoms of this type of injury include an inability to turn your head, a sore back or a stiff neck. In some cases, these symptoms won’t present themselves for several hours after a collision takes place.

Did Your Head Hit Something During a Wreck?

If your head made contact with the dashboard, a pane of glass or any other surface during a motor vehicle accident, you could be at risk of a concussion, cracked skull or another type of traumatic brain injury. Even if you feel fine, it is important to get to a hospital immediately after hitting your head. Diagnosing a TBI in a timely manner may minimize your risk of incurring permanent damage.

You Might Experience Mental Trauma

After a significant event such as a car accident, there is a chance that you’ll develop post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD. For a period of weeks, months or years, you might have trouble sleeping, have a fear of driving or have an emotional reaction to driving past the scene of your accident. You are encouraged to speak with a therapist if you develop mental health issues after being in a motor vehicle wreck.

It’s generally in your best interest to hire an attorney if you’re hurt in a car crash. Legal counsel may be able to use witness statements, video footage of the crash or other evidence to help you obtain a favorable settlement. If a settlement isn’t reached, an attorney may be able to represent your interests during a personal injury trial.