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Car accidents can happen in the blink of an eye. Whether it’s a small bump or a major crash, the impact can leave you hurt, confused and unsure of what to do next. Many people think they’ll never be in an accident—but the truth is, even the safest drivers in a town like Lake Stevens, Washington, can find themselves dealing with an unexpected collision. That’s why it’s important to know what injuries are most common and how you should handle them.
Lake Stevens, a city in Washington, built around a lake with the same name, has been expanding to grow more commercially and economicly. With the roads becoming more busy and the local weather changing quickly, the risk of car accidents increases.
If you ever find yourself injured after a crash, it’s always wise to speak with a car accident attorney in Lake Stevens to protect your rights and understand your options. They can help guide you through insurance claims, medical bills and more.
Let’s look at the most common types of injuries people suffer in car accidents and what you can do if it happens to you or someone you love.
1. Whiplash
Probably the most common injury is whiplash, which is particularly prevalent in rear-end injuries. It happens when your neck is whipped back and forth. This could harm the muscles, tissues and ligaments of your shoulders and neck. You might experience pain, stiffness or dizziness several days or hours following the accident.
So, what to do:
See a doctor immediately, even if the pain is minimal. Use ice packs, take pain relievers if necessary, and follow the doctor’s advice. You may need physical therapy to fully recover.
2. Back and Spine Injuries
Car crashes put a tremendous amount of pressure on your spine. They could trigger lower back pain, herniated discs or spine injuries. These can be very serious and may not appear immediately following the accident.
So, what to do:
Any back pain, numbness or weakness in limbs ought to be given prompt medical care. Do not ignore these symptoms. Early treatment can make a difference.
3. Injuries to the Head
Head injuries range from mild concussions to moderate traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Even a little bump can result in confusion, headaches or memory issues. These injuries may not be apparent right away.
So, what to do:
Visit the emergency room if you hit your head or even feel dizzy, nauseous or confused. If left untreated, a brain injury could get even worse.
4. Cuts and Bruises
Flying glass, loose items, or your seatbelt can cause cuts, scrapes and bruises. A few of these injuries are minor but could become infected if not cleaned and treated properly.
So, what to do:
Clean any wounds and apply bandages. If the cut is deep or bleeding continues, see a doctor. Look for redness, swelling or fever signs of an infection.
5. Broken Bones
Fractures in the arms, legs, collarbone or ribs usually happen during a crash. You may feel a sharp pain or see swelling and bruising. Sometimes the bone even pokes through the skin.
So, what to do:
Seek emergency assistance if you suspect a broken bone. Keep still and keep the area supported. Follow up with X-rays and treatment from a specialist.
6. Emotional Trauma
Many people do not realize that emotional injuries are just as real as physical injuries. You may be anxious, afraid or depressed following an accident. You might avoid driving or feel nervous every time you get in a car.
So, what to do:
Talk with somebody–a good friend, a close family member or perhaps a mental health specialist. You can emotionally heal with support groups or therapy. Take care of your psychological health just as much as your physical.
Final Thoughts
Accidents are scary, especially when you’re not sure what’s happening to your body or how to handle it. If you’re in a town like Lake Stevens and you or someone close to you has been injured in a car crash, you’re not alone. Whether it’s whiplash, a broken bone, or emotional trauma, the right care and support can make a big difference.
Don’t wait to get help. Lake Stevens and other similar towns have resources, professionals and legal experts who can guide you every step of the way.
The post How to Handle Common Car Accident Injuries first appeared on Clean Fleet Report.