What Injuries Can Happen To You In A Car Crash?

Every year, millions of Americans experience the jarring, life-altering reality of car accidents. In an instant, everything changes. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a car crash occurs every 10 seconds in the United States—a sobering statistic that highlights just how common these traumatic events are.

At Metier Law Firm, we've seen firsthand how a sudden collision can transform lives, leaving victims to navigate a complex maze of medical treatments, insurance claims, and legal questions. Finding an experienced car crash lawyer can make all the difference in your recovery journey.

The Physics of Impact: What Your Body Experiences

The human body wasn't designed to withstand the tremendous forces involved in vehicle collisions. When your car suddenly stops or changes direction due to impact, your body continues moving at the previous speed until something stops it—a principle known as Newton's First Law of Motion.

Even at relatively modest speeds, the forces involved in a car crash can be devastating. A collision at just 30 mph for both vehicles can subject your body to forces 20-30 times that of gravity. To put this in perspective, fighter pilots wearing specialized equipment train extensively to handle forces of 9-12 G's, and even they can lose consciousness at higher levels.

For more data on car crashes, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website here.

The Three Collisions of a Car Crash

What many people don't realize is that every car accident actually involves three distinct collisions:

1.    The Vehicle Collision

The initial impact when your car strikes another object (vehicle, tree, guardrail, etc.). This is when crumple zones activate, airbags deploy, and the vehicle's structure begins absorbing energy.

2.    The Human Collision

Occurs milliseconds later when your body—still moving at the pre-crash speed—impacts something inside the vehicle. This might be your seatbelt (which distributes the force across stronger parts of your body) or, in unrestrained occupants, the steering wheel, dashboard, or windshield.

3.    The Internal Collision 

Perhaps the most dangerous, this happens when your internal organs continue moving forward and strike the inside of your skeletal structure. Your brain may impact your skull, your heart may collide with your ribcage, and other organs may tear away from their connective tissues.

Force Magnification in Various Crash Types

Different crash configurations create different force patterns:

Head-on Collisions 

Create the most severe deceleration forces, as the speeds of both vehicles combine. A 35 mph head-on crash with another vehicle traveling at 35 mph produces forces similar to hitting a solid wall at 70 mph.

Rear-End Impacts

Create a whipping motion in the body, particularly the neck, as the torso is pushed forward while the head initially remains in place before snapping forward.

Side-Impact (T-bone) Crashes

Particularly dangerous because there's less vehicle structure to absorb energy before it reaches occupants. Forces travel a shorter distance to impact the human body.

Rollover Accidents

Subject occupants to multiple impacts from different directions as the vehicle tumbles, often causing complex, multi-system injuries.

Initial Impact and Immediate Effects

During those critical milliseconds:

• Your body remains in motion even after the vehicle stops
• Safety features like airbags and seatbelts engage (potentially causing their own injuries)
• Your organs shift and compress against internal structures
• Adrenaline floods your system, potentially masking serious injuries

This surge of adrenaline often creates a fight-or-flight response that can prevent you from immediately recognizing the full extent of your injuries. This is one reason why seeking immediate medical attention is crucial, even if you feel "fine" after a crash.

Common Car Crash Injuries That May Require Legal Assistance

Head and Brain Injuries

Head injuries represent some of the most severe consequences of a car crash. The sudden acceleration/deceleration forces can cause your brain to collide with the interior of your skull, even without direct impact.

Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)

These can range from mild to severe and may cause headaches, confusion, memory problems, and long-term cognitive impairment.

Skull Fractures

Direct impacts can crack or break the skull, requiring immediate medical intervention.

TBIs can be particularly insidious because symptoms sometimes develop days or weeks after the incident. An experienced car crash lawyer understands how to document the progression of these injuries and their long-term implications.

Neck and Spinal Injuries

The human spine simply isn't built to withstand the violent forces of a collision:
Whiplash: The rapid back-and-forth movement damages soft tissues in the neck, potentially leading to chronic pain.

Spinal Cord Damage

In severe cases, spinal injuries can cause partial or complete paralysis, forever changing a victim's life.

These injuries often require extensive rehabilitation and may prevent victims from working or enjoying activities they once loved. A personal injury attorney specializing in car crashes can help ensure you receive compensation that accounts for these life-altering changes.

Chest and Abdominal Trauma

The torso absorbs tremendous force during collisions, especially from restraint systems:

• Internal Bleeding: May not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening
• Rib Fractures: Painful and slow to heal, these can lead to breathing difficulties
• Organ Damage: The liver, spleen, and kidneys are particularly vulnerable to collision forces

Limb Injuries

Arms and legs frequently suffer damage during crashes:

• Fractures and Dislocations: Often occur from bracing against impact
• Soft Tissue Damage: Sprains, strains, and tears that may require surgery
• Crush Injuries or Amputations: In severe crashes, limbs may be irreparably damaged

Beyond Physical Trauma: The Emotional Impact

Car accidents don't just harm the body. The psychological aftermath can be equally debilitating:

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Flashbacks, anxiety, and avoidance behaviors
• Depression and Anxiety: Common responses to traumatic events and dealing with injuries
• Fear of Driving: Can significantly impact daily functioning

A comprehensive car accident settlement should address these psychological damages. When looking for the "best car crash lawyer near me" online, they should understand how to document and pursue compensation for these less visible but equally important injuries.

Critical Steps to Take Following a Car Crash

How you respond in the minutes, hours, and days after a collision can significantly impact both your recovery and potential legal claims:

• Prioritize Safety and Medical Attention
• Check yourself and others for injuries
• Call emergency services immediately
• Accept medical evaluation even if you feel fine

Document Everything

• Take photos of all vehicles, the surrounding area, and any visible injuries
• Get contact and insurance information from all involved parties
• Note weather conditions, traffic signals, and other relevant details
• Report the Accident
• File a police report
• Notify your insurance company
• Be factual but avoid admitting fault
• Seek Legal Guidance
• Contact a car crash lawyer for a case evaluation
• Avoid giving recorded statements to insurance companies before legal consultation
• Begin building your case while evidence is fresh

For more info on what to do after a car crash, click here.

Understanding Your Legal Rights After a Car Accident

Car crashes involve complex liability issues and multiple potential sources of compensation. An experienced car accident attorney can help you navigate these complexities.

Potential Compensation in Car Crash Cases

• Medical Expenses: Current and future treatments, rehabilitation, and adaptive equipment
• Lost Income: Wages lost during recovery and potential diminished earning capacity
• Property Damage: Vehicle repair or replacement costs
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress
• Loss of Enjoyment: Damages for inability to enjoy previous activities and lifestyle

Why Timing Matters

Legal deadlines called statutes of limitations restrict how long you have to file a claim after a car accident. Missing these deadlines can permanently forfeit your right to compensation, which is why consulting with a personal injury lawyer promptly is crucial.

When to Contact a Car Crash Lawyer

Not every fender-bender requires legal representation, but certain situations strongly indicate the need for professional legal help:

• Significant injuries requiring hospitalization or ongoing treatment
• Disputes about who caused the accident
• Crashes involving multiple vehicles
• Accidents with uninsured or underinsured drivers
• Collisions involving commercial vehicles
• Cases where insurance companies offer quick, lowball settlements

How Metier Law Firm Advocates for Car Crash Victims

At Metier Law Firm, our personal injury lawyers bring decades of experience to every car accident case. We understand what victims face—not just legally, but physically, emotionally, and financially.

Our approach includes:

• Thorough accident investigation and evidence preservation
• Coordination with medical experts to document injuries and project future needs
• Skilled negotiation with insurance companies
• Preparation for trial when fair settlements aren't offered
• Personalized attention to each client's unique circumstances

If you need legal assistance with an auto accident case in Colorado, Washington, Wyoming or Oregon, click on the state you need to be taken to our car accident page for your state.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Crash Cases

How soon after a car accident should I contact an attorney?

It's best to consult with a car crash lawyer as soon as possible after seeking medical attention. Early involvement allows your attorney to preserve evidence and protect your rights from the beginning. Crucial evidence like skid marks, vehicle damage patterns, and witness recollections can fade or disappear quickly. Additionally, insurance companies often reach out immediately after accidents, and having legal representation before these conversations can prevent costly mistakes.

Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?

Many jurisdictions follow comparative negligence rules, which may allow you to recover damages even if you were partly responsible for the accident, though your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you're found 20% responsible for the accident, your compensation might be reduced by 20%. A skilled car accident attorney can help minimize your assigned percentage of fault by thoroughly investigating the crash and presenting evidence that supports your version of events.

To meet our team and see how we can assist you, click here.

What if the other driver doesn't have insurance?

Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may provide compensation. A personal injury attorney can help identify all potential sources of recovery, including:

• Your personal health insurance
• Medical payments coverage on your auto policy
• Potential third-party liability (vehicle manufacturers, road maintenance authorities, etc.)
• Your own umbrella insurance policy
• In some cases, the at-fault driver's personal assets

Never assume you have no options just because the other driver lacks insurance. A car crash lawyer can explore all avenues of compensation.

To learn more about uninsured/underinsured insurance and what that means, click here.

How long will my car accident case take to resolve?

The timeline varies widely depending on injury severity, liability clarity, and insurance company cooperation. Some cases settle in months, while complex litigation may take years. Factors that can extend the timeline include:

• Ongoing medical treatment (it's usually advisable to reach maximum medical improvement before settling)
• Disputes over liability or damages
• Insurance company delay tactics
• Court scheduling and availability
• The complexity of your injuries and prognosis

While a quick settlement might seem appealing, rushing the process often results in inadequate compensation. Your car crash lawyer should provide a realistic timeline based on the specific details of your case.

What types of evidence are most important in car crash cases?

Strong evidence is the foundation of any successful car accident claim. The most valuable evidence typically includes:

• Police reports documenting the crash scene and officer observations
• Photographs of vehicle damage, the accident scene, and visible injuries
• Video footage from dashcams, traffic cameras, or nearby security systems
• Witness statements from people who observed the crash
• Medical records linking your injuries directly to the accident
• Expert testimony from accident reconstructionists, medical professionals, and economic experts
• Employment records documenting lost wages and career impact

A thorough and highly rated car accident attorney will help collect and preserve this evidence to build a compelling case.

How are pain and suffering damages calculated?

Unlike medical bills or lost wages, pain and suffering doesn't come with receipts or pay stubs. Insurance companies and courts may use different methods to calculate these damages:

• Multiplier method: Your economic damages are multiplied by a factor (typically 1.5 to 5) based on injury severity
• Per diem method: A daily rate is assigned to your pain and suffering and multiplied by the number of days you experience it
• Precedent from similar cases in your jurisdiction

The right personal injury lawyer will document your physical pain, emotional distress, and lifestyle changes thoroughly to maximize these crucial damages.

Will I have to go to court for my car accident case?

Most car crash cases settle before trial, but it's impossible to guarantee an out-of-court resolution. Your case may be more likely to require litigation if:

• The insurance company denies liability entirely
• The offered settlement doesn't adequately cover your damages
• There are complex liability issues involving multiple parties
• Your injuries are catastrophic with high-value claims

The best car crash lawyers prepare every case as if it will go to trial, even while pursuing settlement options. This thorough preparation often leads to better settlement offers and positions your case strongly if court becomes necessary.

For more information on going to court vs settling out of court, click here.

Take Action to Protect Your Future

The aftermath of a car crash can feel overwhelming. Physical pain, emotional trauma, mounting medical bills, and lost income create a perfect storm of stress at a time when you should be focusing solely on recovery. While you focus on healing, let the experienced personal injury lawyers at Metier Law Firm handle the legal complexities.

Our team is committed to securing the compensation you need to rebuild your life. We've helped countless car crash victims navigate these difficult waters, fighting tirelessly against insurance companies that prioritize profits over people. You deserve a legal support team who understands what you are going through. They should have the skills to turn your pain into the fair compensation you deserve by law.

Don't navigate this challenging time alone. Contact Metier Law Firm today at 866-377-3800 or schedule a free consultation at our website - www.metierlaw.com. Your recovery is our priority and we will fight for you.