Whiplash injuries occur most frequently in rear end collisions, and are caused by the abrupt forward movement of a struck vehicle. The occupants' heads are suddenly forced to snap back and forth with the vehicle, stretching the muscles and ligaments of the neck and upper back muscles beyond their typical range of motion. These injuries lead to significant pain and swelling, and are best managed with icing and over-the-counter pain medication.

Sudden collisions can be destructive to the body's structure. During a crash, occupants' limbs often hit hard surfaces within the car with great force, splintering or fracturing bones. The severity of the fractures can vary depending on the type of collision and the speed of the vehicles involved. The treatment for broken bones typically involves immobilization of the affected area, which may require a cast or surgery in more severe cases.

Auto crashes account for nearly 14% of all traumatic brain injuries in the United States each year. During a crash, the forceful impact of the brain against the skull can disrupt its normal function, leading to immediate loss of consciousness, memory loss, or physical impairment. Serious head injuries - from concussions to traumatic brain injuries - are common in wrecks, and often lead to hearing, vision, and memory problems. Head injuries can vary widely in their severity and modes of treatment - if you suspect you might have a head injury after your accident, seek immediate emergency care.

A sudden violent collision can harm the bones, tendons, ligaments, and muscles in the upper and lower back. Back and neck injuries can present as sharp or burning pain, stiffness, muscle spasms, tingling, and mobility issues. The most common spinal injuries include sprains, herniated discs, and fractured vertebrae - these injuries can cause paralysis or painful degenerative spinal disorders that require long-term treatment. To treat non-vertebral injuries, medical experts usually recommend painkillers, physical therapy, a neck brace, cold packs, and elevation.

Damage to internal organs, such as the heart, lungs, spleen, liver, bladder, kidneys, or intestines, can cause systemic failure in the body or life-threatening internal bleeding. Internal injuries are often deadly if not treated immediately,

During a moment of a violent impact, broken glass, metal, or other sharp objects in the vehicle can lacerate or penetrate the skin, leading to wounds that can vary in severity. The head, face, arms, and legs are most commonly affected by lacerations during a crash. To avoid infection or scarring, it's important to seek prompt medical attention for these injuries. Depending on the severity of the cuts, treatment may range from first aid to a few stitches to emergency care.

When the body is hit with blunt force, damage occurs to underlying tissues and blood vessels, causing dark bruising. Contusions can range from mild to severe, and can occur in any part of the body during a car accident, but most typically the head, arms, and legs. Mild contusions can be treated with rest, ice, compression, and elevation, while more serious ones may require imaging tests to assess the damage.

Car crashes can result in psychological traumas as well as physical ones. Psychological trauma can manifest in various ways, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, insomnia, and substance abuse disorders. Invisible psychological injuries can derail a person's life as easily as physical injuries. Treatment for psychological trauma can vary depending on symptoms and severity. Common treatments may include a combination of psychotherapy, medication, and support groups.