Injuries From Low-Speed Car Accidents
Low-speed car accidents may not result in injuries as severe as high-speed collisions, but in a way, this can make them more dangerous; crash victims may delay in seeking medical care after a low-speed crash under the assumption that they have not been injured. This could exacerbate the victim’s injuries and result in more severe physical harm in the long term.
Whiplash
Even a low-impact car accident can whip the head and neck forward and backward quickly enough to cause an injury known as whiplash. This motion can injure the tendons, ligaments, nerves and muscles in the neck and surrounding areas. Whiplash can cause pain and a loss of mobility in the neck, head, shoulders and back. Whiplash is especially common in rear-end collisions.
Concussion
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury that can arise in a low-speed car accident if the victim hits his or her head in the collision, such as against the steering wheel or windshield. Any bump, blow or jolt to the head or skull can potentially damage the brain, even if the car accident is not severe.
Concussions can lead to debilitating symptoms such as dizziness, persistent headaches, blurred vision, sensory changes, nausea or vomiting, confusion, memory loss, cognitive changes, and mood swings. While most concussions heal within a few weeks, some victims can experience lasting symptoms or even permanent damage.
Soft-Tissue Injuries
An impact between the body and a fixed object under any circumstances, including a low-speed car accident, could cause soft-tissue injuries. This includes bruises, contusions, strains, sprains and tears that may affect the ligaments, joints, muscles or tendons. Damage to the soft tissues can be painful and interfere with mobility. Car accident victims may require therapy and rehabilitation to treat these injuries.
Back Injuries
A low-speed collision can still be enough to injure the back or spinal cord. The lumbar spine, for example, or the five largest vertebrae near the bottom of the spine, can be strained when jolted in an accident. This could lead to soft-tissue injuries, nerve damage, or herniated or ruptured disks in the back. These are painful injuries that may have long-lasting effects.
Pain and Suffering
Regardless of the speed at which a car accident takes place, it can be emotionally distressing for those involved. Motor vehicle accidents are abrupt and traumatic incidents that can inflict lasting mental and psychological trauma. For example, an individual may develop a new fear of driving, post-traumatic stress disorder or reduced enjoyment of life due to an injury.
Always Seek Medical Care After a Car Accident
Every car accident, no matter how minor, has the potential to inflict injury. It is critical to visit a doctor for a physical evaluation and professional medical treatment for any injuries you may have suffered after a low-speed car accident. If you wait too long to see a doctor, this could negatively affect you physically and financially.
You may initially feel fine after a low-impact collision, but as your adrenaline from the crash wears off, you may start to notice pain, stiffness or other signs of injury. Unfortunately, if you waited to get medical care, your injuries may have already worsened. An insurance company can try to use any delay in treatment against you to reduce your payout. It’s advisable to seek guidance from a car accident lawyer in Los Angeles to ensure your rights are protected.
If you sustained an injury in a low-speed car accident in Los Angeles, consult with an attorney for assistance in seeking fair financial compensation from an insurance provider.