When an individual is in a particularly bad car accident, catastrophic injuries such as traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries are not uncommon.
According to reports, car accidents are the most common cause of spinal cord injuries, accounting for nearly 50 percent. As far as traumatic brain injuries go, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, motor vehicle accidents are the third leading cause. Combined, catastrophic car accidents pose a great risk for these types of trauma.
What type of accident makes catastrophic injuries more likely?
One may be able to blame the types of car accidents that have the highest fatality rate as the ones that may leave an individual with a catastrophic injury. When head-on collisions occur, everyone involved is in great danger. Typically, these accidents happen at high speeds, which can exacerbate the resulting injuries.
Semi-truck accidents also have a high fatality rate due to their size and weight. These vehicles can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, and when one is involved in an accident, members of passenger-vehicles often face catastrophic injury or death.
Traumatic brain injuries
- Diffuse axonal: This injury happens when the brain crashes from side to side in someone’s skull. This type of repetitive trauma can do a lot of damage to the brain, and often individuals who suffer this type of injury go into a coma.
- Concussion: Concussions are brain injuries that can range from mild to severe. When the head takes a serious blow, the brain can take a hit as well. An individual with a concussion may experience frequent headaches, sensitivity and difficulty concentrating.
- Penetration: If, during an accident, an item penetrates the skull and hits the brain, serious damage can occur. Glass or metal may lodge themselves in the head during a crash and depending on where the item is, one may have significant disability.
Spinal cord injuries
- Paraplegia: Paraplegia refers to paralysis of the lower half of the body. When a catastrophic accident occurs, the impact from the incident may damage the spine, which can affect mobility.
- Tetraplegia: Tetraplegia, also known as quadriplegia, means complete paralysis of the entire body.
Catastrophic car accidents result in catastrophic injuries. If the negligence of another driver gave you or someone you love a catastrophic injury, may be able to seek compensation for pain and suffering, medical bills and lost wages.