Knee Injuries

Knee injuries can occur if the victim’s knee is smashed into the dashboard or other part of the vehicle. Injuries such as fractures, bruises, sprains, and torn cartilage can occur and may require surgery and ongoing medical treatment to fully recover.

Foot and Ankle Injuries

Injuries to the foot or ankle are common in car accidents. Victims can suffer a fracture or sprain, and feet and ankles can also be severed if they become trapped in a part of the car.

Shoulder Injuries

Shoulders can become dislocated if the victim’s hands are on the steering wheel and brace for the force of impact. This can cause the shoulder to lock and dislocate. Some shoulder injuries require surgery, immobilization using a splint or sling, and rehabilitation to recover function.

Crushing Injuries

If two objects are pushed together and a part of the body is in between, that body part can be crushed under the pressure. Crushing injuries can cause bruising, lacerations, broken bones, and severe damage to internal organs, muscles, and tissue.

Burns

Burns can happen if the vehicle catches fire or the occupant comes into contact with chemicals or a deployed airbag. Depending on the severity, burns may need surgery or a skin graft and can be painful and disfiguring.

Internal Bleeding

The force of impact in a car accident can cause internal bleeding and organ damage. Internal bleeding is not always obvious and can be fatal if not caught immediately.

Loss of Limb

During a car crash, a limb can be crushed or severed beyond repair and require amputation. This result can be disabling and affect a person’s long-term ability to work.

Mental or Emotional Injuries

A car accident can cause extreme mental or emotional stress that can lead to conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression. It can cause a person to fear driving, interfere with sleeping, or make it difficult to work. Mental or emotional injuries may require medication and therapy before the victim can return to work or normal life activities.

How a Rhode Island Car Accident Attorney Can Help

Speaking to a car accident attorney can help you understand your legal rights and whether you can pursue a personal injury claim for your injuries. An attorney will gather the evidence needed to prove your car accident case and determine who can be held liable for your injuries and loss. Liable parties in a car accident case may include:

  • Insurance company
  • Negligent third party
  • Employer of the driver who was at fault
  • Defective parts manufacturer

Once liability is determined, you may be entitled to receive compensation, including:

  • Medical bills
  • Lost income
  • Pain and suffering
  • Property damage
  • Permanent impairment

 

Christopher L. Russo
Helping Rhode Island personal injury victims for nearly three decades to get the compensation they deserve.