Low impact auto accidents, also known as low-speed collisions, are car accidents that occur at speeds lower than 10-15 mph. While these types of accidents may seem minor and may not cause significant damage to the vehicles involved, they can still result in serious injuries to the people involved.
One common injury in low impact auto accidents is whiplash, which occurs when the head is suddenly and forcefully jerked forward and then backward. This can damage the muscles, ligaments, and other soft tissues in the neck, leading to pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion. Whiplash can take days or even weeks to fully develop, so it’s important to see a doctor if you experience any neck pain or discomfort after a low impact accident, even if it seems minor.
Another common injury in low impact accidents is a concussion, which is a type of brain injury caused by a blow to the head. Concussions can range in severity from mild to severe, and can cause symptoms such as headache, dizziness, memory loss, and difficulty concentrating. If you experience any of these symptoms after a low impact accident, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible.
Other injuries that can occur in low impact auto accidents include back and spinal injuries, broken bones, and soft tissue injuries such as bruises, cuts, and scrapes. Even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured, it’s important to see a doctor after a low impact accident to ensure that you don’t have any hidden injuries that could become more serious if left untreated.
There are several factors that can increase the risk of injury in low impact auto accidents, including seat belt use (or lack thereof), the angle of impact, and whether the vehicle has airbags. For example, if you aren’t wearing a seat belt when you’re involved in a low impact accident, you’re more likely to be thrown around inside the vehicle and suffer serious injuries. Similarly, if the impact is at an angle rather than head-on, the forces involved can be more severe and increase the risk of injury.
It’s important to remember that even low impact auto accidents can result in serious injuries. If you’re involved in a low impact accident, it’s important to stay calm and follow the steps outlined above: check for injuries, call the police, exchange information with the other driver, take photos of the scene, get witness information, report the accident to your insurance company, and consult with an attorney if necessary.
If you do sustain injuries in a low impact auto accident, it’s important to get the medical attention you need and to follow your doctor’s orders for treatment. You may also be able to recover damages for your injuries through your insurance claim or by negotiating with the other driver’s insurance company. An attorney can help you understand your rights and options and can represent you in any negotiations or legal proceedings.
In summary, low impact auto accidents may seem minor, but they can still result in serious injuries such as whiplash, concussion, back and spinal injuries, broken bones, and soft tissue injuries. It’s important to see a doctor after a low impact accident and to follow the appropriate steps to protect yourself and your interests.
