Car accidents caused by drunk driving are devastating, often leaving victims with life-altering injuries. These incidents are particularly tragic because they are entirely preventable. If you or a loved one has suffered injuries due to a DUI-related crash, don't wait until it's too late. It’s essential to understand the types of injuries often sustained and how to seek appropriate medical treatment, or even explore legal options.
Common Injuries in DUI Car Accidents
The injuries sustained in accidents involving drunk drivers can vary in severity depending on factors like speed, impact angle, and whether passengers were wearing seatbelts. However, some injuries are especially common in these situations.
1. Head and Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are among the most severe consequences of car accidents. They occur when the head experiences a sudden jolt or strike, impacting brain function. Even mild TBIs, such as concussions, can cause long-term complications, including memory loss, headaches, and difficulty concentrating. Severe injuries may result in permanent disability or require extensive rehabilitation.
2. Spinal Cord and Back Injuries
The force of a car crash can damage the spinal cord, leading to partial or complete paralysis. Even less severe back injuries, such as herniated discs, can cause chronic pain and significantly impair mobility. Victims with spinal injuries often require ongoing care, such as physical therapy or surgery, to regain functionality.
3. Whiplash and Neck Injuries
Whiplash occurs when the head is violently thrown forward and back, causing strain or injury to the neck’s muscles and ligaments. Though often considered a "minor" injury, whiplash can result in debilitating pain and stiffness that may persist for weeks or even months without treatment.
4. Broken Bones
Fractures are common in car accidents due to the high-impact forces involved. Arms, legs, ribs, and even facial bones can break upon collision. Recovery from fractures may require surgeries, the use of casts or splints, and ongoing physical therapy to restore normal function.
5. Internal Injuries
The blunt force of a crash can lead to significant internal injuries, such as organ damage or internal bleeding. These injuries are particularly dangerous because they may not be immediately apparent. Left untreated, they can quickly become life-threatening.
6. Emotional and Psychological Trauma
Beyond physical injuries, victims of DUI accidents often experience emotional distress, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression. These conditions can impact every aspect of a victim’s life, from their relationships to their ability to work.
Seeking Medical Treatment After a DUI Accident
Prompt and proper medical care is essential for recovering from injuries sustained in a DUI-related accident. Here’s how you can take steps towards healing:
1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
After an accident, your health should always be your top priority. Even if you feel fine, it’s important to see a doctor. Certain injuries, such as internal bleeding or TBIs, may not show symptoms until hours or days later. A thorough medical evaluation can ensure that hidden injuries are detected and treated early.
2. Follow Up with Specialists
Depending on your injuries, you may need to seek additional care from specialists such as orthopedic surgeons, neurologists, or physical therapists. These experts can help create a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs and improve your recovery outcomes.
3. Document Your Injuries
Maintaining detailed records of your medical treatment—including doctor visits, prescriptions, therapy sessions, and medical bills—is crucial. This documentation not only helps you track your recovery but also serves as essential evidence if you decide to pursue legal action against the at-fault driver.
4. Address Emotional Well-Being
The psychological effects of a traumatic accident should never be overlooked. Consider seeking help from a licensed therapist or counselor to process the emotional fallout. Many victims find comfort in support groups where they can share their experiences with others who have faced similar challenges.
Take Action to Protect Your Rights
Recovering from a DUI accident is not only physically and emotionally taxing but also financially burdensome. Medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and missed wages can add up quickly. That’s why it’s important to take steps to protect your legal rights.
If you have been injured by a drunk driver in Missouri, our experienced West Plains drunk driving accident attorneys are here. At Henry, Williams & Kinder, P.C., we can guide you through every step of the legal process. With decades of combined experience, we are committed to ensuring that justice is served and you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.
Seek help as soon as possible. Together, we can help you rebuild your life and move forward with confidence.
Contact our team today at (800) 526-1949 for a free consultation.