Common Injuries After an Auto Accident
Being involved in an auto accident is a jarring experience that can leave you feeling lost and overwhelmed. The moments, days, and weeks following such an incident are critical, not only for your physical recovery but also for ensuring that your rights and interests are protected. Beyond the immediate medical concerns, there's the added stress of financial burdens from medical bills, the potential loss of income, and the process of dealing with insurance companies.
At Diehl & Hubbell, LLC, we understand the profound impact an auto accident can have on your life and the lives of your loved ones. Our approach is rooted in compassion, backed by decades of collective knowledge and experience in handling auto accident cases across Southwestern Ohio. We prioritize your well-being and recovery while we handle the legal aspects of your case.
Common Injuries You May Experience
Auto accidents can result in many injuries, ranging from minor cuts and bruises to life-altering conditions. Here, we detail the most common injuries Ohio residents might experience.
Whiplash and Other Neck Injuries: Whiplash occurs when the head suddenly jerks forward and then backward, much like the cracking of a whip. This can cause damage to the soft tissues in the neck, resulting in pain and reduced mobility.
Head Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries can range from mild concussions to severe long-term cognitive impairments. It's crucial to seek immediate medical care if you hit your head during the accident.
Back Injuries and Spinal Cord Damage: Injuries to the back can lead to chronic pain or, in more severe cases, paralysis. It's important to have any back pain examined as soon as possible post-accident.
Chest and Abdominal Injuries: Injuries to the chest and abdomen can result from the steering wheel, airbag deployment, or the seat belt. These can range from minor bruising to life-threatening conditions such as internal bleeding.
Broken Bones and Fractures: The high-impact forces of a car accident can easily cause bones to break or fracture. This is particularly common in the arms, legs, and ribs.
Emotional Trauma: The psychological impact of an accident can be substantial. Many accident victims suffer from anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a result of their experience.
By being familiar with these common injuries, you can better articulate your concerns to medical professionals and ensure they thoroughly examine the areas most susceptible to injury.
Recognize the Importance of Seeking Prompt Medical Attention
After an auto accident, you may be inclined to write off any potential injuries as "not that bad" because the adrenaline rush is masking any discomfort. However, seeking medical attention is critical for several reasons.
The Latent Nature of Some Injuries
Certain injuries, particularly soft-tissue damage or internal bleeding, might not manifest symptoms immediately. It is not uncommon for individuals to start feeling pain or noticing limitations days after the accident.
Professional Assessments and Documentation
Medical professionals are trained to identify even subtle signs of injury. Their assessments can serve as crucial evidence if you later decide to seek compensation for your injuries.
Timeline for Legal Recourse
In Ohio, you have two years from the date the injury occurred to file a personal injury claim. Seeking medical attention promptly ensures that you have a clear timeline of injury history, which aids in the legal process.
If you experience any pain or discomfort after an auto accident, you should visit a healthcare provider, regardless if you think it isn't serious. This approach safeguards your health, as well as your legal and financial well-being.
What to Do Following a Car Accident
Following an auto accident, there are several steps you can take to mitigate injury, make sure you are legally protected, and pave the way for a smooth claims process, should you choose to pursue compensation:
Exchange Information With the Other Driver: Gather details from the other party, including their insurance information. This is a standard practice that helps expedite the claims process.
Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage and any injuries. This can serve as valuable evidence when filing a claim.
Report the Accident: In Ohio, calling the police is mandatory if the accident resulted in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000. This official record is vital for insurance purposes and potential legal action.
Notify Your Insurance Company: Inform your insurance company of the accident as soon as possible, but do not provide a detailed statement until after consulting with a legal professional.
These steps can significantly impact the outcome of any legal or insurance processes that result from an auto accident. However, be sure to move swiftly and wisely to make sure you document everything correctly and file a claim within Ohio's two-year window.
Why Choose Diehl & Hubbell, LLC
With Diehl & Hubbell, LLC, you're choosing a team that brings decades of experience and a proven track record of success to your side. We've secured significant recoveries for our clients, demonstrating our ability to handle complex auto accident cases effectively. Our attorneys are respected in the community for their dedication, skill, and commitment to achieving the best outcomes for our clients.
If you or a loved one has been involved in an auto accident in Southwestern Ohio or throughout Warren County, Clinton County, Highland County, Clermont County, or Butler County, let us help you on your path to recovery and justice. Contact us to learn more about how we can assist you during this challenging time.