Did you know that there are approximately 43,000 fatal crashes a year in the United States? According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, about 37 people in the United States die in drunk-driving crashes every day—that’s one person every 39 minutes.
When involved in DUI accidents, individuals may experience a range of injuries that can impact their well-being. From head injuries to psychological trauma, the aftermath of such incidents can be severe. Among these common injuries, there’s one that often goes unnoticed but can have lasting effects on individuals.
DUI attorney Donald P. Day says that if a drunk driver caused an accident that injured you or your loved one, you should be able to hold them accountable and get the justice you deserve. Learn the full scope of injuries that can occur in DUI accidents to raise awareness and promote safety on the roads.
Head Injuries
Head injuries in DUI accidents often result in severe concussions that require immediate medical attention. These injuries can have serious consequences, impacting your cognitive abilities, memory, and overall quality of life. When involved in a DUI accident, the force of the impact can cause your head to violently jerk forward or collide with objects inside the vehicle, leading to brain trauma.
Lake Charles brain injury attorney Michael K. Cox suggests consulting with a legal professional to help you understand your legal rights and options following such injuries. You can also seek medical help immediately to assess the extent of the injury and receive appropriate treatment.
Common symptoms of head injuries in DUI accidents include headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and sensitivity to light or sound. Ignoring these signs can worsen the condition and potentially result in long-term damage.
Medical professionals may recommend imaging tests like CT scans or MRIs to evaluate the severity of the concussion and determine the best course of action. In some cases, rest and medication may be sufficient, while more severe injuries could require surgery or specialized care from neurologists.
Neck and Back Injuries
Injuries sustained in DUI accidents can also frequently result in significant neck and back trauma due to the force of the impact on your body. The sudden jolt from a collision can cause whiplash, a common injury that affects the neck and upper back. This occurs when the head is forcefully jerked backward and forward, straining the neck muscles and ligaments. Symptoms of whiplash may include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and even dizziness.
Back injuries are also prevalent in DUI accidents, often due to the violent motion of the body during a collision. The impact can compress the spine, leading to herniated discs, fractures, or sprains. These injuries can result in intense back pain, limited mobility, and nerve damage. Even if you initially feel fine, some injuries may manifest later, so you must prioritize your health and well-being.
Broken Bones
When involved in DUI accidents, broken bones can result from the impact on your body, causing varying degrees of fractures and injuries. The force of a collision in a DUI accident can exert immense pressure on your bones, leading to breaks or fractures. Common types of broken bones in these accidents include fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. The severity of these injuries can range from minor fractures that require minimal treatment to severe breaks that necessitate surgery and extensive rehabilitation.
Broken bones in DUI accidents can have long-lasting effects on your physical health and overall well-being. Depending on the intensity of the impact, fractures can also result in additional complications such as nerve damage, internal bleeding, or organ injuries. Swift intervention can prevent further complications and promote a faster recovery process.
Internal Injuries
Following a DUI accident, you may experience various internal injuries that can have serious consequences for your health and well-being. These injuries may not always be immediately apparent, making it necessary to seek medical attention right after a crash. Internal injuries can include organ damage, internal bleeding, and abdominal trauma.
Organ damage is a common internal injury resulting from the impact of a DUI accident. Blunt force trauma can cause organs such as the liver, spleen, or kidneys to rupture or become bruised, leading to severe complications if left untreated. Internal bleeding is another serious concern, as it can be life-threatening if not addressed swiftly.
Abdominal trauma is often seen in DUI accidents and can involve damage to the abdominal wall, organs, or blood vessels. This type of injury may present symptoms like pain, swelling, or tenderness in the abdomen. Quick diagnosis and treatment are necessary to prevent further complications and guarantee a full recovery from internal injuries sustained in a DUI accident.
Psychological Trauma
Experiencing a DUI accident can lead to lasting psychological trauma that may impact various aspects of your life. The emotional aftermath of such a traumatic event can manifest in different ways, including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and even substance abuse. You may find yourself reliving the accident through flashbacks or nightmares, struggling with fear or avoidance of driving, or even being a passenger in a car.
Psychological trauma can also affect your relationships, work performance, and overall quality of life. It may lead to difficulties concentrating, sleeping problems, irritability, and mood swings. Seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor specializing in trauma can be instrumental in processing your emotions and developing coping mechanisms.
Conclusion
These injuries can have long-lasting effects on the victims and their families. Always prioritize safety and never drive under the influence to prevent these devastating consequences. Stay safe, and always make responsible choices behind the wheel.
