In a previous article, we looked at: Car Accidents – Common Types of Personal Injuries.In this article, we’ll take a closer look at car accident injuries and their long-term impacts.
Car accidents can cause devastating injuries that can have long-lasting effects on the lives of victims and their families. If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident in North Carolina, it’s crucial to understand the common injuries that can occur and the potential long-term impacts they may have. At Kellum Law Firm, our dedicated team of auto accident attorneys is here to provide legal guidance and help you seek the compensation you deserve.
First, let’s take a look at some car accident statistics for North Carolina:
According to the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), there were 247,214 traffic crashes reported in 2020, a decrease of more than 9% from 2019. However, despite the lower number of crashes, fatalities increased 12.8% over 2019, to 1,658. This means that on average, more than four people died every day in car accidents in North Carolina in 2020.
Of the total crashes in 2020, 105,382 included injuries to drivers or passengers, a slight decrease from 2019. The most common types of injuries reported were neck and back injuries, followed by head and chest injuries.
The NCDOT also provides some breakdowns of the crash data by various categories, such as time, location, type, severity, and contributing factors. Some of the notable findings are:
– 70.3% of all crashes occurred between 7:00 a.m. and 6:59 p.m. in 2020, accounting for 51.2% of crash-related deaths. This suggests that driving at night is more dangerous than driving during the day.
– The most common type of crash was rear-end collision, followed by angle collision and run-off-road collision. The most fatal type of crash was head-on collision, followed by run-off-road collision and angle collision.
– The most common contributing factor for crashes was failure to reduce speed, followed by inattention and lane departure. The most common contributing factor for fatal crashes was lane departure, followed by speeding and alcohol impairment.
– 23.9% of all traffic crash fatalities were related to speeding. Speeding increases the risk of losing control of the vehicle, as well as the severity of the impact in case of a collision.
– 29.4% of all traffic crash fatalities were related to alcohol impairment. Alcohol impairs the driver’s judgment, reaction time, coordination, and vision, making them more likely to cause or fail to avoid a crash. [DWI Victim’s Resource]- 15.6% of all traffic crash fatalities were pedestrians. Pedestrians are vulnerable road users who have no protection from the impact of a vehicle. Drivers should always be alert and respectful of pedestrians’ rights and safety.
– 11.8% of all traffic crash fatalities were motorcyclists. Motorcyclists are also vulnerable road users who have less visibility and stability than other vehicles. Drivers should always check their blind spots and give enough space to motorcyclists.
– The counties with the highest number of crashes in 2020 were Mecklenburg (40,698), Wake (28,189), Guilford (14,798), Forsyth (11,693), and Cumberland (10,437). The counties with the highest number of fatalities in 2020 were Mecklenburg (114), Wake (83), Robeson (66), Guilford (63), and Cumberland (54).
Here’s what you should know about common types of car accident injuries:
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Whiplash and Neck Injuries:
Whiplash is one of the most common injuries sustained in car accidents. It occurs when the head is forcefully jerked forward and then snapped back, causing strain or damage to the neck muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Whiplash can lead to chronic neck pain, limited range of motion, headaches, and even cognitive difficulties.
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Back and Spinal Cord Injuries:
The impact of a car accident can cause severe back injuries, including fractures, herniated discs, and spinal cord damage. These injuries can result in chronic pain, limited mobility, nerve damage, paralysis, and a significant decrease in the victim’s quality of life.
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Head and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs):
Head injuries are common in car accidents, especially when there is a collision or sudden impact. Traumatic brain injuries can range from mild concussions to more severe injuries causing cognitive impairment, memory loss, personality changes, and long-term disabilities. Proper medical evaluation and treatment are essential for head injury victims.
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Bone Fractures:
Car accidents often result in bone fractures due to the forces involved. Fractures can occur in various areas of the body, such as the arms, legs, ribs, pelvis, and collarbone. Depending on the severity and location of the fracture, victims may require surgery, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care.
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Internal Injuries:
The impact of a car accident can cause internal injuries, including damage to organs such as the liver, spleen, kidneys, or lungs. Internal bleeding or organ damage may not always be immediately apparent, but they can lead to life-threatening complications if left untreated.
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Soft Tissue Injuries:
Soft tissue injuries, such as sprains, strains, and contusions, are common in car accidents. These injuries can affect muscles, ligaments, and tendons, leading to pain, swelling, and limited mobility. While they may heal over time, some soft tissue injuries can cause chronic pain and ongoing discomfort.
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Emotional and Psychological Trauma:
Car accidents can have a profound impact on an individual’s mental well-being. Victims may experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and other psychological issues that can significantly affect their daily lives, relationships, and overall quality of life.
The Long-Term Impact Of Car Accident Injuries:
The long-term impacts of car accident injuries can be substantial and extend beyond physical pain. Victims may face:
- Mounting medical expenses for ongoing treatments, surgeries, therapies, and medications.
- Loss of income and reduced earning capacity due to temporary or permanent disability.
- Diminished quality of life, including limitations on daily activities, hobbies, and social interactions.
- Emotional distress, mental anguish, and psychological trauma may require counseling or therapy.
- Rehabilitation and physical therapy needs for regaining functionality and mobility.
- Increased dependency on others for daily tasks and personal care.
- Potential long-term disabilities and the need for long-term care or assistance.
Navigating the Legal Process:
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, it’s essential to consult with an experienced car accident injury attorney. At Kellum Law Firm, our attorneys and legal team has extensive experience representing car accident victims in North Carolina. We will investigate the circumstances of your accident, gather evidence, and work diligently to build a strong case on your behalf. Our goal is to help you seek fair compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Contact Kellum Law Firm Today:
Don’t bear the burden of car accident injuries alone. Contact Kellum Law Firm today for a free consultation. Our compassionate attorneys will listen to your story, assess your case, and guide you through the legal process. We will fight for your rights and strive to secure the compensation you deserve, providing you with the support you need on your journey to recovery.
