Automobile accidents commonly result in the occupants suffering one or more soft tissue injuries. These are traumas caused by the body contacting the vehicle’s components or being subjected to rapid acceleration/deceleration forces in a collision. Many types of soft tissue injuries do not manifest themselves until hours or even days after an accident. In other cases, the injury may initially seem minor but the condition worsens over time.

Learning to recognize the symptoms of a soft-tissue injury can be vital in avoiding serious complications or illnesses than can result if the injury is left undiagnosed and untreated. Here are the most common soft tissue injuries suffered in car crashes and the symptoms that may arise:

• Whiplash — This is a sprain or strain on the neck caused by rapid acceleration/deceleration forces generated by a collision. Symptoms are often a sore neck, headaches, and dizziness or blurred vision. Untreated whiplash can lead to permanent damage and chronic head/neck pain.
• Concussions — These are impact injuries inside the skull that can cause internal bleeding. Concussions can be very dangerous and even fatal if left untreated. Symptoms include headaches, confusion, dizziness, nausea/vomiting, blurred vision, memory loss and loss of consciousness.
• Sprains — A sprain is an impact injury in which the ligaments that connect bones together are overstressed. Symptoms include localized pain and/or swelling in the impact area and in surrounding parts of the body. If left untreated, sprains can worsen and cause further, possibly permanent damage.
• Strains — A strain is an over-extension of the tendons that connect muscles to bones. Common symptoms are localized pain, cramping and loss of range of motion. If left untreated, a strain can cause permanent damage. Lower back strains are very common after car accidents.
• Contusions — Contusions are impact injuries that lead to bleeding at and around an impact site. Symptoms vary depending upon the parts of the body affected. Common signs of contusions are swelling, localized pain and bruising.
• Lacerations — These are impact injuries that result in deep cuts or gashes in the skin. Untreated lacerations can lead to infection and severe bleeding and can be fatal.

If you experience any of these symptoms after being in a motor vehicle accident, it is important to see a doctor right away. Early medical intervention not only can avert worsening the condition but also can provide evidence that may support a claim for financial compensation. In addition, you should consult with a qualified motor vehicle accident lawyer before making any statements to an insurance representative or attorney representing the other driver.

Located in Conroe, Hope & Causey is one of suburban Houston’s most highly respected personal injury law firms. Our lawyers have the skills, knowledge and experience to successfully pursue the appropriate claims in each case. If you have been in an auto accident as a driver or passenger, feel free to contact us online or call 936-441-4673 for an initial consultation.