Statistics show that road traffic accidents are one of the most common ways for people to be injured in the UK.
It is estimated that there were around 407,000 injuries due to road traffic accidents in 2015 alone. In addition, it is estimated that these numbers will continue to rise as the number of carts on the road continues to increase.
What are the most common injuries suffered in a motor vehicle collision? Well, the answer may not be what you expect – they vary greatly depending on many factors such as speed and type of collision (e.g., head-on). Some of the more commonly seen types of injury include spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, and whiplash.
If you’ve been injured in this type of accident, it’s essential to get professional legal advice. A road traffic accident claim can ensure that you receive appropriate compensation for both your out-of-pocket expenses and the mental harm caused.
Broken or Fractured Bones
Injuries to bones are another common type of injury suffered in road traffic accidents. The difference between a break and a fracture is that a break is a complete break in the bone, while a fracture is a partial break. Commonly broken bones include ribs, the collarbone, arms, and legs.
Treatment for broken or fractured bones typically involves immobilizing the affected area (usually with a cast), followed by physiotherapy to regain strength and mobility. Surgery may be required in some cases.
Lacerations or Abrasions
A laceration is a deep cut, while an abrasion is a shallower scrape or bruise. Both can occur in road traffic accidents, particularly if you are thrown from the vehicle or come into contact with another object such as the steering wheel or dashboard.
Treatment for lacerations and abrasions typically involves cleaning the wound, applying a bandage stitches (where necessary), and monitoring for infection.
Internal Injuries
Internal injuries are often more severe than external ones as they can involve damage to vital organs. They can occur in road traffic accidents if you are thrown from the vehicle or if something penetrates your body, such as a piece of glass or metal.
Treatment for internal injuries typically involves surgery to repair the damage, followed by medication and physiotherapy.
Emotional Trauma
Road traffic accidents can be traumatic experiences that can leave you feeling scared, anxious, or depressed. It is vital to seek professional help if you are struggling to cope emotionally.
Treatment for emotional trauma typically involves counseling or therapy, medication, and support groups.
Soft Tissue Damage
Soft tissue refers to the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the body. These can be damaged in road traffic accidents, particularly if there is a direct impact or if you are thrown from the vehicle.
Treatment for soft tissue damage typically involves rest, ice, pain medication, and physiotherapy. In more severe cases, surgery may be required; however, a full recovery is made in most instances.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries are serious injuries that can result in paralysis. They can occur in road traffic accidents if there is a direct impact to the spine or if you are thrown from the vehicle.
Treatment for spinal cord injuries typically involves surgery, medication, physiotherapy, and rehabilitation. In some cases, a person may require lifelong care.
Brain Injuries
Brain injuries can occur in road traffic accidents if there is a direct impact to the head or if your head is suddenly jolted forward or backward (as in whiplash).
Treatment for brain injuries typically involves surgery, medication, physiotherapy, and rehabilitation. In some cases, a person may require lifelong care.
Burns
Burns can occur in road traffic accidents if you come into contact with a hot surface or if there is an explosion.
Treatment for burns typically involves cleaning the wound, applying a bandage, and monitoring for infection. In more severe cases, burns may require surgery and skin grafting.
Am I Due Compensation?
For a compensation claim to be made, it will need to be shown that there was negligence on the part of another party that led to the accident and your injuries. This might have been caused by the other driver:
– speeding or driving recklessly
– driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
– not paying attention to the road
– having faulty brakes or tires
Compensation might also be due if a poorly maintained road surface caused the accident. In this situation, the claim would be made against the local council responsible for its upkeep.
There are also circumstances when a pedestrian can make a claim if they are injured in an accident. This might be when a driver fails to see them crossing the road or if they are hit by a car that is reversing.
Our Summary
If you have been injured in a road traffic accident that was not your fault, you may be entitled to compensation. It is essential to seek legal advice as soon as possible after the accident so that your claim can be started and evidence gathered. An experienced solicitor will be able to assess your case and advise you on the best course of action.