Motor vehicle accidents make up the largest proportion of personal injury claims nationwide. In 2012, there were 5.6 million motor vehicle accidents, 1.6 million of which involved injuries. Injuries vary between cases, which is why it is vital to get an opinion from a doctor. Furthermore, those who have been injured in a motor vehicle accident should consult an experienced car accident attorney to secure the compensation to which they are entitled. Here are some of the most serious and frequent motor vehicle accident injuries:

Head Injuries:

Head injuries are some of the most serious injuries caused by car accidents. Those involved in high-speed collisions can have their head hit dashboards, steering wheels or windows. This can result in traumatic brain injuries, which range in severity from minor concussions to long-term cognitive problems. Traumatic brain injuries often require extensive medical care. Head injuries can also result in hearing loss, problems with vision and skull fractures.

Back Injuries:

Back injuries are another common injury that can stem from car accidents. Injuries involving spinal cord damage have the potential to lead to severe nerve damage. Those who experience such injuries may feel a loss of control and sensation over their arms, feet, hands and legs as well as other parts of their body. In the more serious cases, patients can be left paralyzed for the rest of their lives. A herniated disk is another common injury. Although less severe than spinal cord damage, a herniated disk can cause feelings of numbness, arm or leg pain and muscle weakness.

Neck Injuries:

Whiplash is one of the most common neck injuries that occur in car accidents. It is caused by the quick movement of the neck and head. The motion may be in a forward direction, backward direction or both. Often, whiplash occurs in rear-end collisions and can lead to significant neck pain along with damage to the ligaments. While symptoms vary between individuals, common symptoms include general neck pain, stiffness, swelling, and shoulder pain and low back pain. In some cases, patients may temporarily experience vocal cord paralysis following a car accident.

If you or a family member has suffered injuries from a serious motor vehicle accident, it is important that you seek help from an experienced personal injury lawyer. The car accident attorneys at Johnston, Moore & Weston will assist you in seeking full compensation for your injuries. We are experienced and highly accomplished personal injury lawyers who have assisted clients throughout North Alabama, secure significant settlements and verdicts in a range of different types of motor vehicle accidents.

Sources: http://injury.findlaw.com/car-accidents/types-of-car-accident-injuries.html; http://www.webmd.com/pain-management/guide/pain-management-whiplash