Common Injuries from Car Accidents

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Car accidents cause serious injuries and fatalities every year across Ohio, especially in high-traffic areas like Toledo, Maumee, and the greater Northwest Ohio region. Thousands of collisions leave drivers and passengers facing catastrophic injuries, overwhelming medical bills, and lasting physical and emotional trauma. By recognizing the most common types of car accident injuries, understanding how they occur, and seeking prompt medical attention, you can protect both your health and your legal rights. Whether you’re behind the wheel, riding as a passenger, or walking near traffic, knowing what to watch for—and how to act—can make all the difference after a crash.

 

The Scope of Ohio Car Crashes

 

According to the Ohio Traffic Safety Crash Dashboard, Ohio reported over 419,000 total crashes between 2019 and 2023, with nearly 100,000 resulting in injuries. During that same five-year span, the state saw 5,773 fatal crashes causing 6,262 deaths. In 2023 alone, there were 1,154 fatal collisions and 1,246 traffic fatalities—a 2.2% decline from the previous year. Northwestern Ohio’s data mirror these statewide trends, with thousands of crash-related injuries reported annually. These figures underscore why every Ohio motorist must know which injuries are most common—and what steps to take if they or a passenger are hurt.

1. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

 

Head injuries range from mild concussions to severe TBIs that permanently alter memory, cognition, and personality. –  TBIs account for up to 30% of fatal traffic injuries nationwide; in Ohio, mild traumatic brain injuries are among the most reported non-fatal injuries. – Symptoms: Headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, confusion, mood swings, sleep disturbances, and memory loss. – Long-Term Impact: Even a seemingly minor concussion can trigger lasting cognitive deficits, emotional instability, and an increased risk of Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease. – Action Steps: Always seek an emergency evaluation after any head injury or head impact. Early CT scans or MRIs can detect internal bleeding.

2. Whiplash and Cervical Spine Injuries

 

Whiplash occurs when rapid back-and-forth motion strains neck muscles and ligaments. –  Approximately 16% of Ohio crash injuries are neck-related, often categorized under soft tissue or cervical sprains. – Symptoms: Neck pain, stiffness, difficulty turning the head, headaches, tingling in arms or hands, and dizziness. – Complications: Untreated whiplash can develop into chronic pain syndrome, reduced range of motion, and arthritis. – Treatment: Rest, physical therapy, anti-inflammatories, and in severe cases, cervical collars or injections.

 

3. Spinal Cord Damage

 

Spinal cord injuries (SCI) can result in partial or complete paralysis, requiring lifelong care. –  Motor vehicle accidents account for approximately 12.5% of all SCIs, with Ohio following national trends. – Signs: Loss of sensation, muscle weakness, impaired breathing, and loss of bladder or bowel control. – Rehabilitation: Intensive, multidisciplinary programs including occupational therapy, mobility training, and adaptive equipment. – Prognosis: Varies by injury level; higher injuries (cervical) typically carry more severe outcomes.

4. Fractures & Broken Bones

 

From simple breaks to compound fractures, bone injuries are extremely common in collisions. –  Broken bones represent over 30% of crash-related injuries in Northwestern Ohio, most often affecting arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. – Types: Clavicle fractures (seat belt pressure), rib breaks (steering wheel or dashboard impact), and long-bone breaks (limb impact). – Treatment: Casting, surgical fixation with plates or rods, and months of physical rehabilitation to restore strength.

5. Chest & Abdominal Injuries

 

High-force impacts against steering wheels or seat belts can cause internal trauma. – Common Injuries: Pulmonary contusions, rib fractures, sternal fractures, and organ lacerations (liver, spleen). – Danger Signals: Shortness of breath, chest pain, abdominal tenderness, and signs of internal bleeding (lightheadedness, rapid heart rate). – Medical Response: Emergency imaging (X-ray, CT), fluid resuscitation, and possible surgical intervention.

6. Soft Tissue Injuries (Sprains, Strains & Contusions)

 

These injuries may seem minor, but they can cause prolonged pain and disability. – Examples: Muscle tears, ligament sprains, bruises, and tendon injuries. – Symptoms: Swelling, bruising, limited movement, and persistent soreness. – Recovery: Ranges from a few weeks to several months of rest, ice, compression, elevation (R.I.C.E.), and targeted therapy.

7. Psychological & Emotional Trauma

 

Beyond physical harm, crash survivors often face mental health challenges. – Post-Traumatic Stress (PTSD): Flashbacks, anxiety, nightmares, and avoidance behaviors. – Depression & Anxiety: Loss of independence, chronic pain, and disrupted livelihoods can trigger mood disorders. – Support: Counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), support groups, and medication when needed.

Why Early Medical Attention Matters

 

  1. Documenting Injuries: Prompt exams create an official record that links injuries to the crash, providing vital evidence for insurance or legal claims.
  2. Preventing Complications: Early imaging can uncover hidden trauma (internal bleeding, herniated discs) before they worsen.
  3. Optimizing Recovery: The sooner you start physical therapy or psychiatric care, the better your long-term outcome.

Preventing Car Accident Injuries

 

While not every crash is avoidable, you can reduce your risk and the severity of injuries:

  • Always Wear a Seatbelt: It reduces the risk of fatal injury by 50% and moderate-to-severe injury by 45%.
  • Maintain Your Vehicle: Ensure your tires have proper tread, your brakes are responsive, and your safety systems (such as airbags and seatbelts) are functioning correctly.
  • Obey Speed Limits: Higher speeds exponentially increase crash forces and the severity of injuries.
  • Avoid Distracted Driving: Put away your phone, set your GPS before departure, and minimize in-car distractions.
  • Drive Defensively: Anticipate hazards, maintain a safe following distance, and adjust your driving accordingly for changing weather conditions.

Your Legal Rights After a Crash

 

Recovering fair compensation for your injuries requires understanding Ohio’s legal framework:

  • Ohio’s Tort System: The at-fault driver (or their insurer) pays for your economic damages (medical bills, lost wages, property damage) and non-economic damages (pain and suffering, emotional distress).
  • Comparative Negligence: In Ohio, your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault, so even partial responsibility can still allow for the full pursuit of damages.
  • Statute of Limitations: You generally have two years from the crash date to file an injury lawsuit (R.C. 2305.10).

Navigating insurance negotiations and potential lawsuits is a complex process. Insurers often downplay claims; you need an advocate who understands both medical and legal nuances.

 

How Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault Helps Injury Victims

 

For over 70 years, our Toledo-based firm has secured multi-million-dollar settlements and verdicts for Ohio drivers and passengers who have been injured in car accidents. Our approach includes:

  • Comprehensive Case Evaluation: We review crash reports, medical records, and consult with experts (including accident reconstruction and life-care planners) to calculate full damages.
  • Aggressive Negotiations: We challenge insurance undervaluations and push for fair offers that cover future medical care and lost earning capacity.
  • Trial-Ready Representation: If insurers refuse fair settlements, our seasoned litigators take cases to court, leveraging decades of courtroom success.
  • Contingency-Fee Promise: You pay nothing upfront—our fees are covered by the compensation we recover.

Take Action: Protect Your Health & Your Legal Rights

 

Car accidents can change your life in an instant, and when they do, the right legal team makes all the difference. If a crash in Toledo, Maumee, or anywhere in Northwest Ohio has left you or a loved one injured, turn to attorneys who understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll you’re facing.

At Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault, our skilled Ohio car accident lawyers fight to recover full compensation for your medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and future care. With over 70 years of success representing injury victims across the region, we stand ready to fight for you next.

Don’t wait to protect your rights.
✔ Get immediate medical care—even for minor symptoms.
✔ Document the crash scene and preserve all evidence.
✔ Consult with a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer in Ohio before speaking with insurance adjusters.

Contact Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. Contact us at 419-843-6663 or complete our secure online contact form to get started. We’re here to help you focus on healing while we handle the legal battle.