Car Crash Injury Facts Everyone Should Know

Despite the increase in driver’s education and safety features in cars, car accidents and subsequent injuries happen far too often. Yes, car accidents are still the leading cause of injury and death, not to mention the stress and financial burden during their aftermath.

Our team at Impact Medical Zephyrhills discusses the car crash injury facts that everyone should know!

Car Crash Facts

Let’s look at some of the facts about car accidents and injuries so you are informed before you hit the road.

1. Most car accidents happen within 3 miles of the home
2. The most common causes of car accidents include fatigue, distractions, medical or emotional impairment, and environmental conditions.
3. Car accidents are the most common kind of personal injury
4. Seat belt laws exist in all 50 states
5. Alcohol-related car accidents make up at least one-third of all fatal crashes
6. Teenagers are four more times likely to be injured or die in a car crash than older people.

Car Crash Injury Facts

Here are some top injury facts to keep in mind before you get behind the wheel:

Injuries are Often Long-Lasting

Research has shown that musculoskeletal problems like those that result from even minor car accidents can result in permanent injuries. In fact, 62% of people who sustained whiplash-like injuries experienced residual effects for as long as 10-15 years after their accident.

Car Crashes Might be More Serious Than Suspected

If you have been in an accident and walked away without feeling pain, you should still get a medical examination right away. Here’s why:

• At least 1 in 4 people complain about symptoms following a car crash.
• 12% stated that they felt headaches and neck pain following an initial injury sustained in an auto accident.
• 55% of individuals involved in rear-end crashes are symptomatic 8 years after the accident according to a National Institute of Health report.
• Another study analyzed people who had been in car accidents for 15 years after their accidents. 70% of those studied still were experiencing symptoms 15 years later.

Alcohol and Drugs Are Often Involved

Alcohol and drug-related accidents have steadily risen each year. In 2017 alone, 6,148 accidents were caused by impaired drivers who were under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or both. It is illegal in the state of Florida to drive if you have a BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) of .08% or higher. 

Personal Injury Protection is Required

All Florida drivers are legally required to carry insurance coverage on their vehicles, including PIP, or Personal Injury Protection. PIP is used for medical costs and lost wages for an accident-related injury.

It is important to note that PIP only pays for accident-related medical expenses as long as you seek medical attention within 14 days of your accident. 

Most Common Car Crash Injuries

The most common car crash injuries include:

• Bruising
• Scars or disfigurement
• Broken bones
• Neck injuries
• Whiplash
• Wrist and hand injuries
• Leg & foot injuries
• Back and spinal injuries
• Concussions
• Brain injuries
• Burns
• Paralysis
• Internal bleeding

If you have been in a car accident, don’t wait to seek help. Remember, you have 14 days to use your PIP benefits, so seek medical attention promptly, even if you don’t think you are hurt. Car accident injuries often manifest in the days and weeks following an accident.

Post-Accident Treatment

If you have sustained an injury in a car accident in Zephyrhills, visit our car-accident clinic at Impact Medical Zephyrhills for a medical examination. Our team of doctors, physical therapists, chiropractors, and pain specialists will help you get back to optimal health!

Call us for an appointment today; (813) 706-5156!