Car accidents usually cause various injuries, including cuts, bruises and broken bones. In a head-on collision, however, the people involved usually experience unique injuries like whiplash, concussions, bruising, fractures and internal bleeding.
Whiplash
Whiplash is a neck injury that occurs when the head is suddenly and forcefully flung forward, then backward. It can cause neck pain and stiffness, loss of range of motion in the neck, headaches, most often starting at the base of the skull, tenderness or pain in the shoulder, upper back or arms, tingling or numbness in the arms, fatigue and dizziness. In extreme cases, the force of the whiplash can lead to more severe problems, such as cervical spinal damage.
A Concussion
A concussion is a type of brain injury that can occur when the head is suddenly and forcefully jolted in a car accident. Concussions can cause a variety of symptoms, including headaches, dizziness, nausea, fatigue and difficulty concentrating. In extremely rare cases, concussions can also lead to more serious problems, such as brain bleeds.
Fractures and Broken Bones
Fractures and shattered bones are common in head-on crashes, especially in the ribs, pelvis, and legs. These injuries can be excruciatingly painful and may need surgery to heal.
Internal Bleeding
This is a very serious type of injury that occurs when one or more of the body’s organs is damaged by an external force. Internal bleeding can cause a variety of symptoms, including abdominal pain and rigidness, chest pain and shortness of breath. If not treated promptly, it can be fatal.
Seat Belt Injuries
Although seat belts are designed to protect people in car accidents, they can sometimes cause injuries, such as bruises, cuts and abrasions. In some cases, the force of the seat belt can also cause more serious problems, such as organ damage or broken bones.
If you’ve been in a head-on accident, get medical assistance as quickly as possible, even if you don’t believe you’ve been wounded. Some of these ailments, such as whiplash, might develop over days or even weeks. As a result, it’s critical to see a doctor as quickly as possible following the injury.