Who’s At Fault in a Car Accident? A Guide to Liability in Ohio
Posted in: Car Accidents
KNR Legal Blog
In Ohio in 2013, there were 269,079 accidents that resulted in 9,232 incapacitating injuries and an additional 39,062 non-incapacitating injuries, according to the Ohio Department of Public Safety. In fact, more than 2.3 million people were treated at emergency rooms as a result of injuries from a car accident in 2009, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) citing a 2010 study in Traffic Injury Prevention.
Being involved in a car accident is an experience that can change your life, especially when an injury results. Here’s a look at some of the most common car accident injuries and what to do if you or a loved one suffers an injury in an accident.
Head and Brain Injuries
A car accident might result in a slight bump on the head, and in more serious cases might result in traumatic brain injury (TBI). Some might hit the head on a structure within the vehicle, and in some cases the force of impact causes the brain to slam into the inside of the skull, leading to a TBI.
These injuries require medical attention, even if they appear minor. A doctor may order scans and other tests to evaluate the patient. Some may require surgery, while others require rest to recover from the injury. As such, damages are largely dependent on severity of the injury.
Back and Neck Injuries
When a vehicle stops suddenly or makes contact with another vehicle or object unexpectedly, occupants may lurch forward and then backward. This motion can often cause neck injuries like whiplash. Whiplash describes soft tissue injuries like sprains and strains in the ligaments, tendons and muscles in the neck. Some suffer back injuries like strains and sprains. Most minor neck and back injuries require rest and likely a temporary absence from work.
In more severe cases, patients may suffer herniated discs in the neck or back portion of the spinal cord, as well as spinal fractures and even spinal cord damage. These injuries may require surgery and some could require long-term care.
Facial Injuries
When a car accident occurs, it’s not uncommon for the face to be in the direct line of exposure to things such as flying glass or debris. Additionally, the face often makes direction contact with objects such as a seatbelt, dashboard, or airbag.
The umbrella term “facial injuries” may include any of the following.
In some cases, dental work or reconstructive/cosmetic procedures may be required, and patients will require time to heal.
Broken Bones
Broken bones from a car crash can happen throughout the body, as one may imagine.
Treatment usually requires immobilization of the affected body part, as well as time to heal. Some cases require surgery. In any case, a broken bone often affects ability to work, especially in jobs that require manual labor.
Psychological Injuries
Many don’t think of psychological injuries as some of the most common car accident injuries. But the severity of psychological injuries following an accident should not be overlooked.
Following an accident, it’s not uncommon for people to develop these states of mind.
Additionally, some develop depression as well, especially in cases of severe physical injuries that cause pain and limit mobility.
Recovering Damages When You’ve Suffered Serious Injuries
If injured in an accident caused by another person, you may pursue damages. An attorney can be essential in getting you the compensation you deserve to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
At Kisling, Nestico & Redick, our attorneys guide clients through the claims process, including gathering evidence and medical documentation, handling all communications with insurance companies, and demonstrating fault. Call1-800-HURT-NOW or use our contact form.