Comprehensive list of car accident injuries in Nevada

​If you live in Las Vegas, or have visited Nevada, you know car accidents can happen to anyone any time. And, their injuries can be devastating. Furthermore, if you’ve ever been involved in a car accident, you know that these incidents can cause a wide range physical, emotional, and financial strain. From minor sprains to life-altering trauma, understanding motor vehicle accident injuries is crucial for Nevada residents and visitors alike, who’re seeking legal representation and medical care.

Have you or a loved one been injured in a car accident? Contact Wooldridge Law Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation with our experienced Las Vegas car accident attorneys. We’re committed to securing the compensation you deserve.

Most common car accident injuries in Las Vegas, Nevada

As experienced Las Vegas personal injury lawyers, we’ve helped thousands of car accident victims across Nevada. While each crash is unique, certain injuries occur more frequently than others. Here are the most common injuries our car accident lawyers handle, from most to least frequent:

1. Soft Tissue Injuries
   • Soft tissue injuries are the most common types of car accident injuries.
   • Soft tissue injuries include sprains, strains, and contusions (bruises), which can occur throughout the body.
   • Whiplash leads the list of soft-tissue, car accident injuries in Las Vegas.
2. Head Injuries
   • Head injuries are caused when the brain hits the inside of its skull.
   • These injuries can range from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
   • Even low-speed collisions can cause the brain to impact the skull, leading to serious complications.
3. Bone Fractures
   • Common bone fractures include broken ribs, arms, legs, and hips.
   • These range from simple fractures to compound breaks requiring surgery and rehabilitation.
   • In more severe cases, compound fractures, where the bone pierces the skin, can occur, increasing the risk of infection and requiring immediate medical attention.
4. Internal Injuries
   • Internal injuries involve internal bleeding and damage to internal organs like the liver, kidneys, or spleen.
   • Such internal injuries typically result from the blunt trauma or penetrating trauma associated with car accidents.
   • These injuries are particularly dangerous as symptoms may not appear immediately after leaving the accident scene.
5. Spinal Cord Trauma
   • Spinal cord injuries can lead to partial or complete paralysis.
   • The most common spinal cord injuries our injury attorneys usually see include herniated discs and fractured vertebrae.
   • The location and severity of the spinal injury will determine the extent of paralysis, whether it is paraplegia or quadriplegia.
6. Psychological Trauma
   • Las Vegas accident victims typically psychological trauma from their auto accidents.
   • Leading psychological trauma includes post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and phobias related to driving or being in a car.
   • These invisible injuries can be just as debilitating as physical trauma, which is why it’s best to request a phycological evaluation.

If you’re suffering from any of these injuries after a car accident in Las Vegas, contact Wooldridge Law Injury Lawyers for a free consultation. Our experienced accident attorneys understand how these injuries impact your life and will fight for maximum compensation.

Soft tissue injuries from auto accidents in Nevada

Soft tissue injuries are among the most common consequences of car accidents in Las Vegas, and throughout Clark County. Soft tissue injuries often happen from the sudden and forceful impact that occurs in car collisions. These injuries, which affect the muscles, ligaments, and tendons, can range from mild to severe and can significantly impact a person’s daily life and mobility.

Whiplash

Whiplash, the most common soft-tissue injury, is typically associated with rear-end collisions. Whiplash is typically caused by the victim’s head suddenly jolting backward and then forward. This sudden movement overstresses the neck muscles and ligaments. Symptoms of whiplash can include neck pain and stiffness, headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, and, in severe cases, memory problems and depression. While some victims recover from whiplash within a few weeks, others may experience chronic pain and disability that lasts for months or even years.

Sprains

A sprain is an injury to the ligaments, the rugged bands of fibrous tissue that connect bones and stabilize the joints. Sprains occur when a joint is forced beyond its normal range of motion, such as a sudden twist or turn during a car accident. The severity of a sprain is categorized into three grades:

• Grade I (mild): Slight stretching and microscopic tearing of the ligament fibers.
• Grade II (moderate): Partial tearing of the ligament can lead to abnormal looseness in the joint.
• Grade III (severe): Complete ligament tear or rupture, often requiring surgical intervention.

Sprain symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and a limited range of motion in the affected joint. In severe cases, there may be a popping sound at the time of the injury, followed by immediate joint instability.

Strains

Strains, conversely, pertain to injuries to the muscles or tendons, which are the cords of tissue that connect muscles to bones. Strains often result from a muscle being stretched too far or subjected to excessive force, as might happen during the impact of a car crash. Like sprains, strains are also classified into three grades based on severity:

• Grade I (mild): Minor stretching and muscle or tendon fiber damage.
• Grade II (moderate): More extensive damage and possible partial tearing of the muscle-tendon unit.
• Grade III (severe): Complete tear of the muscle or tendon, which may necessitate surgical repair.

The symptoms of a strain include pain, muscle spasm, weakness, swelling, inflammation, and cramping. In severe cases, there may be a loss of muscle function.

Contusions

Contusions, commonly known as bruises, are caused by blunt force trauma that crushes underlying muscle fibers and connective tissue without breaking the skin. In a car accident, contusions often occur when a part of the body strikes the vehicle’s interior or when objects inside the car strike the body. Contusions can range from mild to severe, depending on the force of the impact and the area affected.

Symptoms of contusions include discoloration of the skin, swelling, tenderness, and pain when touching the affected area. While most contusions are minor and heal without extensive treatment, severe contusions can cause deep tissue damage. They may lead to complications such as compartment syndrome, where pressure within the muscles builds to dangerous levels.

Head injuries and concussions from Las Vegas car crashes

Head trauma is one of the most severe and expected outcomes of car accidents in Nevada. Head injuries have the potential to cause long-lasting effects on an individual’s health, and daily life. Identifying and treating head trauma promptly is crucial to minimize the risk of permanent damage.

Identification of head trauma

The first step in dealing with head trauma is to recognize the signs and symptoms. These can vary widely depending on the severity of the injury but often include:

• Loss of consciousness, even if only for a brief moment
• Confusion or disorientation
• Headache that persists or worsens
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness or balance problems
• Blurred vision or tired eyes
• Ringing in the ears
• Changes in behavior or mood
• Difficulty remembering or concentrating
• Sensitivity to light or noise

In some cases, symptoms may not appear immediately and can take hours or even days to manifest. This is why car accident victims need to seek medical attention, even if they feel fine initially.

Immediate treatment

Immediate treatment for head trauma typically involves ensuring the individual remains still and calm until emergency personnel arrive. Moving someone with a suspected head injury can worsen the condition. If the person is unconscious, it’s essential to check their airway, breathing, and circulation and to prepare to administer CPR if necessary, but only if you are trained.

Once under professional care, the medical team will assess the severity of the head trauma. This may involve physical examinations, cognitive tests, and imaging tests like CT scans or MRIs to determine the extent of the injury.

Long-term treatment and monitoring

Treatment for head trauma can range from rest and over-the-counter pain relievers for mild cases to emergency surgery to reduce swelling and prevent brain damage in more severe cases. Following the initial treatment, long-term monitoring and rehabilitation may be necessary. This can include:

• Regular follow-up appointments with a healthcare provider
• Physical therapy to regain strength and balance
• Occupational therapy to assist with everyday tasks and job-related skills
• Speech therapy to address communication difficulties
• Counseling or therapy to manage emotional and behavioral changes

Types of bones fractures and breaks from car accidents in Nevada

High-speed collisions on Las Vegas roads often result in severe bone fractures. From simple breaks to complex compound fractures, these injuries require immediate medical attention and can lead to months of recovery time and substantial medical expenses.

• Simple Fractures
  • Simple or closed fractures occur when the bone breaks but does not pierce the skin.
  • These fractures are generally less complicated and have a more straightforward recovery process.
  • Treatment often involves immobilization with a cast or splint, followed by physical therapy to restore strength and mobility.
• Compound Fractures
  • In contrast, compound fractures, or open fractures, are more severe.
  • These occur when the broken bone pierces the skin, creating an open wound.
  • This type of fracture carries a higher risk of infection and requires immediate medical intervention.
  • Surgery is often necessary to clean the wound and repair the bone, possibly with the use of metal rods, plates, or screws.
  • Recovery is typically longer and may involve extended courses of antibiotics and more intensive rehabilitation.
• Comminuted Fractures
  • Comminuted fractures are characterized by bone shattering into three or more pieces.
  • High-velocity impacts, such as those in car accidents, often cause these fractures.
  • Treatment usually involves surgical intervention to reconstruct the bone.
  • Recovery is prolonged and may require bone grafting and long-term physical therapy.
• Greenstick Fractures
  • Greenstick fractures particularly relevant to pediatric (child) cases.
  • Greenstick fractures occur when a bone bends and cracks but doesn’t break entirely because children’s bones are more flexible.
  • Treatment typically involves immobilization, but the recovery is usually quicker than in adults due to the rapid healing nature of children’s bones.
• Stress Fractures
  • Stress fractures are tiny cracks in the bone.
  • These fractures often result from repetitive force rather than a single traumatic event.
  • While less common in traffic accidents, they can occur due to bracing against the crash.
  • Recovery involves rest and possibly physical therapy to strengthen the surrounding muscles.

Recovery process

The recovery process for fractures varies depending on the type and severity of the break, as well as the individual’s overall health. Initial treatment focuses on reducing pain, aligning the bone for proper healing, and immobilization. Once the bone has sufficiently healed, physical therapy is often necessary to restore function and strength. This phase may include exercises, stretches, and other modalities to improve mobility and reduce stiffness.

Internal injuries and internal bleed caused by car accidents in Nevada

Internal trauma can be one of the most horrific consequences of a car accident because it may not be immediately apparent. Unlike external injuries that are visible and often accompanied by pain, internal injuries can sometimes go unnoticed until they become life-threatening. Recognizing the signs and responding quickly is crucial for the best possible outcome for auto accident victims.

Symptoms of internal trauma

Internal trauma can manifest through a variety of symptoms. Some of the more common signs include:

• Abdominal pain or swelling may indicate internal bleeding or organ damage.
• Nausea or vomiting, particularly if the vomit has the appearance of coffee grounds, can suggest bleeding in the stomach.
• Dizziness, fainting, or lightheadedness may be caused by internal bleeding, leading to a drop in blood pressure.
• Difficulty breathing could be a sign of a punctured lung or other respiratory issues.
• Chest pain, which could indicate heart trauma or a ruptured aorta.
• Blood in urine signals potential kidney damage or issues with the urinary tract.
• Unexplained fatigue is a symptom that can be associated with internal bleeding or other systemic responses to internal damage.

Immediate response to suspected internal trauma

If you suspect that you or someone else has sustained internal trauma from an auto accident, immediate action is necessary:

• Call Emergency Services: Time is of the essence with internal injuries. Dial 911 or your local emergency number to get professional medical help immediately.
• Limit Movement: If the injured person is conscious and there is no immediate danger, encourage them to lie still and wait for emergency personnel. Unnecessary movement can exacerbate internal injuries.
• Monitor Vital Signs: If trained, monitor the person’s breathing and pulse. Be prepared to give this information to emergency responders upon their arrival.
• Provide Comfort and Reassurance: Stay with the injured person and provide reassurance. Keep them warm and comfortable while waiting for help.

Medical evaluation and treatment

Once emergency services arrive, they will likely perform a rapid assessment and transport the individual to a hospital for further evaluation. Medical professionals will use diagnostic tools such as X-rays, CT scans, and ultrasounds to identify the specific nature and extent of the internal trauma.

Treatment for internal injuries can vary widely depending on the type and severity of the trauma. It may involve:

• Surgery to repair damaged organs or blood vessels.
• Blood transfusions if there is significant blood loss.
• Medications to manage pain and prevent complications.
• Close monitoring in a hospital setting, especially for potential complications such as infection.

Spinal cord injuries we see in our car wreck injury claims

Spinal cord injuries, ranging from herniated discs to paralysis, are among the most severe consequences of car accidents in Nevada. The sudden force of a collision can cause lasting damage, profoundly impacting the victim’s health and quality of life. As personal injury attorneys, we assist those affected by understanding these injuries, their potential effects, and the legal recourse available.

Why are spinal cord injuries and damage so severe?

The spinal cord is the main pathway connecting the brain to the body. Damage to the spinal cord from a car crash can range from herniated discs and fractures to more severe injuries resulting in partial or complete paralysis below the site of the injury. The severity and location of the damage are critical factors in determining the extent of disability.

Spinal cord injuries often lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, diminished ability to perform daily activities or work, significant medical expenses, and the emotional toll of adapting to life with a disability. This can be overwhelming for victims and their families.

According to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center, vehicle crashes are the leading cause of spinal cord injuries, accounting for about 39% of new SCI cases each year. The lifetime costs of living with a spinal cord injury can range from $1.2 million to over $5 million depending on severity. With such high stakes, it’s crucial for those affected to speak with attorneys to understand their legal rights and options for seeking compensation.

Psychological trauma experienced by car accident victims in Las Vegas

The mental health impact of car accidents in Vegas is often overlooked but can be as debilitating as physical injuries. Trauma from an accident can manifest as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other conditions. In fact, studies show that up to 1/3 of people involved in nonfatal accidents experience some PTSD symptoms.

Common emotional reactions after an accident include shock, anger, and fear. When these persist and interfere with daily life, they may indicate more serious issues. Symptoms like nightmares, flashbacks, fear of driving, mood swings, and avoidance of accident reminders suggest a profound psychological impact. According to the National Center for PTSD, roughly 9% of motor vehicle accident survivors develop full PTSD.

Seeking professional help is crucial. Mental health experts can assess the trauma and provide tailored treatment, including therapy, counseling, and medication. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for accident-related phobias and PTSD. One study found that CBT decreased PTSD symptoms in 57% of motor vehicle accident survivors.

Anxiety and depression are also common after accidents. A study in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry reported that 27% of car accident survivors developed an anxiety disorder and 15% developed depression within 4 weeks of the crash.

Prioritizing mental health after an accident is integral to recovery. It requires recognition, professional intervention, support, and legal advocacy. By addressing psychological needs, victims can work towards restoring their quality of life. Seeking legal help after a car accident can ensure these needs are met in any accident injury claim.

Long-term impacts and local resources for nevada car accident injury victims

For many accident victims, the collision marks the beginning of a prolonged battle with chronic pain and disability. This battle can be as much mental and emotional as it is physical.

Chronic pain and disabilities

• Chronic Pain
  • Chronic pain is a persistent sensation of discomfort that can last for months or even years after the accident.
  • Can manifest in various forms, such as a continuous ache, a throbbing sensation, sharp pains, or stiffness.
  • This kind of pain often stems from injuries to the musculoskeletal system, nerve damage, or even as a result of surgeries that were necessary to address initial injuries.
  • Chronic pain can severely limit one’s mobility and ability to perform daily activities, which in turn can lead to other health problems, including depression and anxiety.
• Disability
  • Disability refers to the long-term loss of physical or cognitive function due to the accident.
  • Disabilities can range from partial impairments, such as the loss of a limb or reduced range of motion, to total disability, which may leave an individual unable to work or live independently.
  • The transition to living with a disability can require significant adjustments to one’s lifestyle, home, and work environment.
  • Permanent disabilities can also challenge one’s sense of identity and self-worth.

Coping with chronic pain and disability is a multifaceted process. It often involves ongoing medical treatments, including physical therapy, pain management programs, and, in some cases, psychological support to help manage the emotional toll. Pain management strategies might include medication, acupuncture, massage therapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy, which helps patients understand and manage their pain.

Local Las Vegas Resources for car accident victims

Emotional and psychological support is crucial for victims as they deal with the fallout from an auto accident. Here are some local support groups and rehab services available to car accident victims in Nevada:

Support groups

• Local Community Centers: Many churches and community centers across Nevada host support groups for accident survivors. These groups are often facilitated by trained professionals or peers who have also experienced traumatic events. They allow individuals to connect with others in their community who can relate to their struggles.
• Online Support Networks: For those with mobility issues or who prefer the convenience of accessing support from home, online forums and social media groups offer a platform to connect with others. Websites like Meetup or Facebook can have specific groups for car accident survivors where members can exchange stories, advice, and encouragement.
• National Organizations: Organizations such as the Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA) have local chapters and support groups for individuals who have suffered brain injuries in car accidents. Similarly, the Spinal Cord Injury Support Group offers resources and meetings for those dealing with spinal injuries.

Rehabilitation services

• Physical Therapy: Physical therapists work with car accident victims to restore movement and function. They design personalized exercise programs that help to reduce pain, improve mobility, and prevent further injury.
• Occupational Therapy: Occupational therapists assist individuals in relearning daily activities and skills that may have been affected by the accident. This can include anything from dressing and bathing to more complex tasks like returning to work or driving.
• Speech and Language Therapy: For those who have suffered head injuries or trauma to the throat, speech and language therapists can help in recovering communication skills. This therapy is vital in assisting victims to regain the ability to speak clearly and understand others.
• Psychological Counseling: Car accidents can lead to mental health issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. Psychiatrists and psychologists specialize in helping individuals process the emotional impact of their experiences and develop coping strategies to manage their symptoms.
• Vocational Rehabilitation: Some individuals may find that they are unable to return to their former jobs due to the injuries sustained in the accident. Vocational rehabilitation services can provide career counseling, job retraining, and assistance in finding new employment opportunities.

FAQs

How to heal broken ribs faster?

Broken ribs typically heal over 4-6 weeks, but careful rest, consistent pain management, and gentle breathing exercises can support a smoother, faster recovery. It’s key to avoid strenuous activities that could aggravate the injury. Adequate pain control with recommended medications (like NSAIDs or acetaminophen) can make deep breathing and gentle coughing more tolerable, helping to prevent lung complications.

Supporting your ribs with a pillow while coughing may also reduce discomfort. Although wearing tight bandages around the chest is not advised (as it can restrict breathing and increase risk of pneumonia), maintaining good posture and sleeping slightly upright can ease pressure and pain. Proper nutrition – particularly a diet rich in protein, calcium, and vitamin D – along with gradual physical activity, supports faster healing. If symptoms worsen or new ones appear, consult your healthcare provider promptly.

Can a broken rib puncture a lung?

A broken rib can indeed puncture or lacerate a lung, although it is relatively uncommon in simpler fractures. More severe breaks or those involving sharp, displaced bone fragments pose a higher risk for lung injury. Symptoms of a punctured lung may include sudden, sharp chest pain, shortness of breath, a rapid heart rate, or a feeling of tightness in the chest.

If you suspect a rib fracture or any sign of lung injury, prompt medical evaluation is critical to rule out complications like a pneumothorax (collapsed lung). Emergency care can involve imaging studies (X-ray, CT scan) to assess the extent of injury and guide proper treatment.

What are the most common injuries from car accidents?

Based on the experience of our Las Vegas personal injury attorneys, soft tissue injuries – such as sprains, strains, contusions, and particularly whiplash – are by far the most common injuries from Las Vegas car accidents.

Head injuries follow closely, with everything from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) occurring when the brain strikes the inside of the skull.

Bone fractures are also frequently seen, including broken ribs, arms, legs, and hips, which can range from minor cracks to compound fractures that require surgery. Internal injuries, often involving internal bleeding or organ damage (liver, kidneys, spleen), are another serious concern because symptoms may not appear immediately.

Spinal cord trauma, such as herniated discs or fractured vertebrae, can result in anything from local back pain to partial or complete paralysis, depending on the severity and location of the injury.

Finally, psychological trauma – including PTSD, anxiety, depression, and driving-related phobias—rounds out the list of most common car accident injuries, illustrating that not all harm is visible.

Does health insurance cover car accident injuries?

Typically, Nevada health insurance can cover car accident injuries if the injuries and treatments are covered under the terms of your health insurance policy. However, coverage can vary significantly depending on your specific plan, its deductibles, co-pays, and any exclusions.

Often, after a car accident, your auto insurance or the at-fault driver’s auto insurance may also come into play for medical costs, especially if you carry medical payments (MedPay) coverage or if the other party’s liability insurance covers your expenses. When dealing with car accident injuries, it’s usually best to report the incident to both your car insurance and health insurance providers, then consult with a personal injury attorney to understand your options for maximizing coverage and pursuing compensation.