Motor Vehicle Accidents
A motor vehicle accident is any accident that involves a motor vehicle, such as a car, truck, or motorcycle. One of the main causes of mortality and injury in the US is motor vehicle accidents. If you or a loved one has been involved in a motor vehicle accident, it is crucial to seek legal guidance.
There are many motor vehicle accidents, and each type can have different legal implications. For example, car accidents are the most common type of motor vehicle accident. Truck accidents are often more severe than car accidents because of the size and weight of trucks. Motorcycle accidents can be particularly dangerous because motorcyclists are more exposed to the elements and have less protection than occupants of other vehicles.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a motor vehicle accident, it is essential to seek legal guidance from an experienced attorney.
Common Motor Vehicle Accident Injuries
Arm and Leg Injuries
Arm and leg injuries are some of the most common injuries that result from motor vehicle accidents. They account for a significant portion of all emergency room visits each year. The most common type of arm injury is a fracture, which can occur when the arm is hit by a heavy object or struck by another vehicle. Leg injuries are often more severe, as they involve crushing or amputation.
Burns
Motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of burn injuries. According to the American Burn Association, approximately 20% of all burn injuries result from car accidents. Burns from car accidents can be particularly severe, as the high temperatures and intense pressure can cause extensive damage to the skin and tissue. In addition, the chemicals used in seatbelts and airbags can also cause chemical burns.
Chest Injuries
A chest injury is one of the most common injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident. The force of the impact can cause the sternum, or breastbone, to break. This can be a severe injury and may require repair surgery. In addition, the ribs are also susceptible to fractures in an accident. A broken rib can puncture the lungs, causing a serious respiratory problem. Even if the ribs do not break, they can still be bruised or cracked.
Fractures and Broken Bones
A break, typically in a bone, is called a fracture. A broken bone is a more severe fracture where the bone has completely broken through. A common cause of fractures and broken bones is motor vehicle accidents. When a car crashes, the force of the impact can cause the driver or passengers to be thrown around inside the vehicle. This can result in bones being fractured or broken. In addition, seat belts and airbags can cause fractures and broken bones in a car accident.
Head Injuries
Head injuries are some of the most serious injuries resulting from a motor vehicle accident. A minor head injury can cause lifelong problems, including memory loss, cognitive impairment, and headaches. More serious head injuries can lead to paralysis, coma, and even death. While seat belts and airbags have helped reduce head injuries in car accidents, they are still a leading cause of head injuries.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
One of the most common psychological conditions resulting from a motor vehicle accident is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD is a condition that can develop in people who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. Motor vehicle accidents are one of the most common triggers for PTSD. Symptoms of PTSD include flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and avoidance of places or objects that remind the person of the accident. PTSD can also lead to social isolation, depression, and substance abuse.
Scrapes and Cuts
Cuts and Scrapes can range from minor to severe and can occur anywhere on the body. In most cases, cuts and scrapes are caused by contact with sharp objects, such as broken glass or metal. They can also be caused by debris thrown around the car's cabin during an accident. In some cases, cuts and scrapes can be deep enough to require stitches or other medical treatment. And in severe cases, they can lead to infection or other complications.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of soft tissue injuries. Soft tissue includes muscles, ligaments, and tendons. These tissues can be damaged when they are stretched or torn. Common types of soft tissue injuries include strains, sprains, and contusions. A soft tissue injury's symptoms may include pain, swelling, bruising, and limited range of motion.
Spinal Cord and Neck Injuries
Spinal cord and neck injuries resulting from motor vehicle accidents can range from mild bruising to complete paralysis. The vast majority of these injuries are caused by the sudden impact of the collision, which can cause the spine to snap or compress. In some cases, the damage may only be temporary, but in others, it can be permanent. In severe cases, paralysis or even death may occur.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are a type of damage to the brain that can occur when the head is suddenly and violently hit. Motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of TBIs and can have a lasting effect on a person's health and well-being. Symptoms of a TBI can include headaches, dizziness, nausea, memory problems, and mood swings. A TBI can also cause problems with physical coordination and balance.
What to Do Following a
Motor Vehicle Accident?
An automobile accident is never enjoyable to experience. Even if the damage is minimal, it can still be a jarring event. If you find yourself in this situation, you should do a few things to ensure everyone's safety and prepare for the next steps.
Stop, Protect the Scene, and Call the Police
Protect Your Rights; Ask for Legal Guidance
The first step is to stop your vehicle. This may seem obvious, but it is essential to ensure that you and the other drivers involved are not in danger of being hit by oncoming traffic. Once you have stopped, the next step is to protect the scene of the accident. This includes using flares or reflectors to warn other drivers and turning off your vehicle's engine to prevent fire hazards. Finally, you need to call the police. These steps are essential to ensure everyone's safety and avoid further damage.
Seek for Medical Attention
Anytime you are involved in a car accident, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine. Why? Because sometimes injuries do not present themselves directly following an accident. For example, you may have whiplash but not feel pain until the next day. If you wait to see a doctor, it will be difficult to prove that your injuries were caused by accident.
Document the Scene
After being involved in a motor vehicle accident, it is essential to document the scene. This will help to ensure that all relevant information is collected and that everyone involved clearly understands what happened. Here are some tips on how to properly document the scene of an accident:
Take photos: Be sure to take photos of the damage to all vehicles involved and any skid marks or debris on the road.
Get contact information: Exchange insurance information with the other driver, and get the contact information for any witnesses.
Make a report: File a police report and obtain a copy for your records.
By taking these steps, you can help to ensure that all of the necessary information is gathered after an accident.
It is crucial to take the required actions to safeguard your rights. Once you have been treated, or if you do not require medical attention, you should reach out to an experienced motor vehicle accident lawyer. An attorney will be able to guide you through the process of pursuing compensation for your damages and can help ensure that your rights are protected throughout.
Protect Your Rights; Ask for Legal Guidance
When to Hire a Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyer?
Whenever you are involved in a car accident, it is a good idea to consult with a lawyer specializing in motor vehicle accident cases. Even if the accident was minor and there was no property damage or personal injury, it is always best to avoid caution. The other driver may allege that you were at fault, or their insurance company may try to lowball you on your claim. An experienced lawyer will be able to protect your rights and help you get the maximum compensation possible.
In short, it is always best to consult with an experienced motor vehicle accident lawyer if you are involved in a car accident. Even if the accident seems minor, it is always better to be safe than sorry.
What Does a Motor Vehicle Accident Attorney Do?
Helps You Understand Your Rights
A motor vehicle accident attorney can help you understand your rights and ensure that you are fairly compensated for any damages. An experienced attorney will know how to deal with insurance companies and negotiate a fair settlement. They will also be able to advise you on whether or not to take your case to court. And if you go to court, they will be able to represent you and fight for the best possible outcome.
Provides Legal Advice
Motor vehicle accident lawyers provide legal advice to people injured in car accidents. They help their clients to understand their rights and options and to make informed decisions about their cases. In many cases, accident victims are unsure whether they need an attorney or even can afford one.
Your attorney will negotiate with the other driver's insurance company to get you the best possible settlement. And, if necessary, your attorney will take your case to court to bring you the compensation you deserve.
Negotiates for a Just Settlement
Represents You in Court
A motor vehicle accident attorney is a lawyer who represents you in court after you have been in an accident. Most times, these accidents are not your fault, but the other driver's. The attorney will review the accident report and other evidence to determine who was at fault. They will then file a lawsuit against the other driver and their insurance company.
Investigates the Case
First, the attorney will gather all relevant evidence, including the police report, photos of the damage, and witness statements. Next, they will review your insurance policy to determine available coverage. Then, they will reach out to the other driver's insurance company and start negotiations. Obtaining the highest amount of compensation is the aim.
Assesses the Entirety of the Damages
A lawyer helps you assess the entirety of the damages and makes sure you are compensated for them. Accident lawyers have a lot of experience dealing with insurance companies and know how to get you the total value of your damages.
Connects with Medical Professionals
Seeking medical attention after an accident is vital for your health and any potential legal claims you may have. That's why many personal injury attorneys work closely with medical professionals. When you hire an attorney, they will often connect you with a doctor who can provide the necessary treatment and documentation to support your case.
Schedule an Appointment with a Competent Lawyer Today!
You may have never need to a lawyer before. But, if you have been involved in motor vehicle accidents, you will want to schedule an appointment with a competent lawyer today. Many people try to handle motor vehicle accident cases, only to find out that the insurance companies are not on their side. But, if you have a lawyer on your side, you will have a much better chance of getting the total compensation that you deserve.
If you have questions about what to do after an accident or want to learn more about your legal options, please contact OUCH USA via email at hello@ouchusa.com or call us at +1-844-872-6824. We would be happy to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.