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Types of catastrophic auto accident injuries

On Behalf of | Mar 29, 2022 | Car Accidents

A catastrophic injury is a serious illness or injury that happens without a warning. The effects may last for a few years or completely change the victim’s life. There are several types of catastrophic injuries that a person Ohio may experience.

Traumatic brain injury

Traumatic brain injuries are common after auto accidents, occurring from hitting the head on a hard surface. TBI is either open, meaning the injury penetrated the skull, or closed when the skull is not pierced.

Mild TBI symptoms include headaches, dizziness, confusion, nausea or vomiting, and they may or may not cause loss of awareness. While most mild TBIs don’t leave lasting effects, more serious TBIs may need ongoing treatment.

Nerve damage

Nerve damage affects the ability of the nerves to send signals to the brain, which causes loss of feeling. The spinal cord is a commonly infected area because it is a main carrier of brain signals.

Whiplash occurs from the forceful jerking of the neck, which may cause punched nerves from the impact. Some common signs of nerve damage include pain, tingling or numbness as well as reduced control of body functions, shooting pain and muscle weakness.

Eye injury

The National Institutes of Health reports that auto accidents are a common cause of eye injuries at 9,200 annually. An eye injury is not considered catastrophic unless it causes permanent damage in one or both eyes.

If glass pieces or other objects penetrate the eye, it can cause infections or orbital fractures without treatment. While airbags have lowered the risk of death in car crashes, the chemicals released can irritate or burn eyes or injure the retina.

Even a minor injury can get expensive from doctor visits and loss of workdays. Injured drivers or other injured parties may sue at-fault drivers for damages.

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