No matter the factors involved, a collision often results in devastating injuries. From brain damage to crushed limbs, those in cars or on motorcycles might suffer lifechanging injuries and lifelong conditions. While every crash is unique, there are numerous common factors that can impact the severity of an accident injury, including:
- Angle of the collision: While many people automatically think of a fender-bender collision as the most common form of crash, a rear-end collision is only one of the many types of wrecks. In addition to a rear-end collision, there are head-on collisions and side-impact collisions (often called T-bones). The angle of impact can influence the forces on the vehicle occupants and the potential injuries they might suffer.
- Types of vehicles involved: From motorcycles and cars to SUVs and tractor-trailers, the types of vehicles involved play a huge role in determining the injury outcome. Motorcycle riders, for example, have little in protection outside of heavy clothing and a helmet so they often experience the worst injuries possible. A truck driver, though, will not suffer any injuries in all but the most severe collision while causing devastation to the smaller vehicles around them.
- Occupant position in vehicle: Even in a small passenger vehicle, there are numerous positions in which a vehicle occupant can sit. The position in the vehicle coupled with the type of impact angle can dramatically change the types of injuries suffered.
- Body position at the time of the collision: Individuals might think that everyone in a motor vehicle collision was seated faced forward with their feet planted firmly on the car floor. This is rarely the case. An individual might have crossed their legs, rested their feet on the dashboard or turned to look behind them. Any of these positions can enhance the types of injuries suffered due to a vehicle collision.
Countless factors influence the type and severity of injuries sustained in a motor vehicle collision. The speed of the vehicles, for example, or an individual’s injury history can all dramatically change the course of medical treatment.
A vehicle collision can result in traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, paralysis, compound fractures and amputation. Severe collisions can result in fatalities. No matter the type of collision, it is crucial to receive a thorough medical evaluation and course of treatment.
