Every year, thousands of people in Hawaii and across the U.S. are injured in car accidents. These injuries range in severity (from minor bruises to life-altering trauma) and can impact nearly every part of the body. Knowing the most common injuries can help you better understand your situation and the steps needed to protect your health and rights.
One of the most frequent injuries following a car crash is whiplash. This neck injury is caused by a rapid back-and-forth motion of the head, usually occurring in rear-end collisions. While whiplash might not appear serious at first, symptoms can worsen over time, leading to chronic pain and mobility issues.
Other soft tissue injuries, such as sprains, strains, and muscle tears, are also common. These injuries can affect the back, shoulders, and other areas and often require physical therapy or extended rest to heal.
Broken bones are another typical result of high-impact crashes. Arms, legs, ribs, and facial bones are especially vulnerable during a collision. In more serious accidents, compound fractures or crushed limbs may require surgery and long-term rehabilitation.
Fractures can take weeks or months to heal and often lead to missed work, which creates additional financial stress.
Head injuries range from mild concussions to traumatic brain injuries. Even with seat belts and airbags, drivers and passengers may hit their heads on steering wheels, dashboards, or windows during a crash.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), motor vehicle crashes were a leading cause of traumatic brain injuries in the U.S. TBIs can affect memory, concentration, emotional stability, and overall cognitive function. These injuries often require intensive medical treatment and ongoing care.
Injuries to the back and spine are often serious and can result in long-term disability. Herniated discs, spinal fractures, and spinal cord damage can all stem from a car accident. Some individuals may experience nerve damage or even paralysis, depending on the extent of the injury.
Back injuries might not be immediately apparent, but early diagnosis is critical. If left untreated, they can worsen significantly over time.
Internal bleeding and organ damage are life-threatening conditions that may not show symptoms right away. These injuries are especially dangerous because they can be hard to detect without medical imaging.
Anyone involved in a serious car crash should seek medical attention immediately, even if they feel fine in the moment. Prompt treatment can be the difference between life and death.
Not all injuries are physical. Many car accident survivors experience anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The emotional toll of an accident can affect a person’s ability to drive, work, or enjoy life as they once did.
Mental health support is a crucial part of the recovery process. If you’re experiencing emotional distress after a crash, know that you’re not alone and that help is available.
Car accidents are, unfortunately, a common occurrence in Hawaii. According to the Hawaii Department of Transportation, there were over 10,000 motor vehicle crashes in a recent year, with hundreds resulting in serious injuries or fatalities.
The high number of car accidents in the state highlights the importance of knowing your legal rights and options after being injured in a crash.
The first step after any car accident should always be seeking medical attention. Even if injuries seem minor, a medical professional can identify underlying problems and document your condition, which is critical for both your recovery and your legal claim.
It’s important to follow all treatment recommendations, attend follow-up appointments, and keep detailed records of your medical expenses and symptoms.
If you were injured in a car crash due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. This can include coverage for:
Filing a claim involves several steps, including gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and possibly pursuing a lawsuit. Having a knowledgeable personal injury attorney by your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
To recover compensation, it must be shown that another party’s negligence caused the crash. This could involve actions like:
Proving negligence requires documentation, witness testimony, accident reports, and sometimes expert analysis. That’s why contacting a skilled attorney as soon as possible is crucial.
In Hawaii, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims related to car accidents is generally two years from the date of the accident. If you wait too long, you may lose your right to recover compensation altogether.
It’s best to speak with an attorney early on, so they can start building your case and ensure all deadlines are met.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Hawaii, we understand this is a difficult time for you and your loved ones. The physical pain, financial stress, and emotional trauma can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Leavitt, Yamane & Soldner, we’ve been helping car accident victims for decades. Our legal team is known for its compassion, attention to detail, and strong track record of success. Call us today for a free, no-obligation consultation at 808-537-2525 and let us help you get the compensation and peace of mind you deserve.
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