When you think of a car accident resulting in injuries, you might imagine something serious and catastrophic. You may be surprised to learn, then, that even the most minor fender benders can result in injuries that are expensive and can have serious consequences for your health and well-being.

If you have been involved in a fender bender or any other kind of accident, it’s important to seek medical attention and consider consulting with a personal injury lawyer to protect your rights and seek compensation for any injuries or damages you have sustained. Read on to learn about the types of injuries you should look out for after a fender bender, and how the lawyers at Great West Injury Law can help in your moment of need.

What Is a Fender Bender?

A fender bender is a common type of car accident that involves low-impact collisions between two or more vehicles. According to data gathered by National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the U.S. sees about 1.7 million rear-end collisions of this type every year. These types of accidents are often minor and do not result in serious injuries or significant damage to the vehicles involved. However, even low-impact accidents can cause injuries, especially if the occupants of the vehicles are not wearing seat belts or are caught off guard by the collision.

Common Types of Injuries After a Fender Bender

  • Whiplash: Whiplash is a common injury that occurs when the neck is violently jerked forward and backward, causing damage to the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the neck. Whiplash can be caused by any type of impact that causes the head to move suddenly, including fender benders. Symptoms of whiplash may include neck pain, stiffness, and headaches, and can take several days or weeks to appear.
  • Soft tissue injuries: Soft tissue injuries refer to any damage to the muscles, tendons, or ligaments in the body. These types of injuries can be caused by the sudden impact of a fender bender, as well as by the strain of bracing for the impact. Symptoms of soft tissue injuries may include bruising, swelling, and pain in the affected area.
  • Fractures: While it is less common, it’s possible to sustain fractures in a fender bender, especially if the impact is severe enough. Fractures can occur in any bone in the body and may be caused by the force of the impact or by the body being thrown against a hard surface. Symptoms of a fracture may include severe pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the affected limb.
  • Head injuries: Head injuries, including concussions, can also occur in a fender bender, especially if the occupants of the vehicle are not wearing seat belts. Head injuries can be caused by the head being struck by an object or by the brain being jarred inside the skull. Symptoms of a head injury may include headache, dizziness, nausea, and difficulty with memory and concentration.
  • Psychological injuries: In addition to physical injuries, it’s possible to sustain psychological injuries in a fender bender. These types of injuries can include anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These injuries can be caused by the stress and trauma of being involved in an accident and may require professional treatment to resolve.

Seek Compensation for Your Injuries with Our Help

Fender benders may seem minor, but they can still result in serious injuries that can have a significant impact on your health and well-being. If you have been injured in a fender bender, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and damages. This can include medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs related to the accident.

A personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights and options and can represent you in negotiations with the insurance company or in court if necessary. If you have been involved in a fender bender or victimized by another driver’s negligence in any other way, reach out to us for a free consultation. The experienced car accident lawyers at Great West Injury Law are here to help you get the compensation you deserve.