Car accidents can shatter the routine of our daily lives and leave a trail of unseen wounds.
Among these, soft tissue injuries stand out due to their elusive nature. They may not always manifest immediately or be visible, like fractures or bruises, but their impact can be profound and long-lasting.
Soft tissue injuries include a range of conditions affecting the muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
These injuries can be as straightforward as a minor sprain or as complex and debilitating as severe whiplash.
The force exerted in a car crash, even a low-speed impact, can stretch, tear, or contuse the soft tissues in your body. This leads to conditions that an X-ray cannot immediately detect.
After a soft tissue injury from a car accident, the road to recovery can be frustrating. It is filled with doctor visits and a nagging worry that you may never feel ‘normal’ again. At Savage, Royall & Sheheen, LLP, we understand the intricate challenges these injuries bring and the importance of securing a resolution that acknowledges your experience.
What Are Soft Tissue Injuries?
Soft tissue injuries happen when ligaments, muscles, or tendons in your body are damaged. These tissues are what help you move and stay flexible, and when they’re hurt, it can seriously affect your daily life.
Unlike more obvious injuries like broken bones, soft tissue injuries aren’t always visible on the surface, nor will they show up on X-rays.
They can be tricky, hiding beneath the surface, only to reveal themselves through swelling, pain, and a frustrating limitation in movement that you may notice hours or even days after the incident.
Common Soft Tissue Injuries Resulting from Car Accidents
When you’re in a car accident, your body experiences an intense, often unexpected jolt. Even at low speeds, the force of an accident can seriously harm your muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
Here are some of the most common soft tissue injuries people face after a car accident:
- Whiplash: When you experience whiplash, your neck snaps back and forth quickly, stretching the muscles and ligaments. It causes pain, stiffness, and headaches. Whiplash is one of the most frequent injuries after a rear-end collision.
- Sprained Ankles: Your foot might twist awkwardly during impact, leading to a sprained ankle. This happens when the ligaments around your ankle are overstretched or torn, making it hard to walk or stand without pain.
- Shoulder Strains: The force of a collision can cause your shoulder muscles to stretch too far, especially if you’re holding onto the steering wheel tightly. This strain often leads to stiffness and a limited range of motion in your arms.
- Knee Ligament Injuries: If your knees hit the dashboard or twist awkwardly during an accident, it can lead to ligament damage. Injuries to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), medial collateral ligament (MCL), or meniscus are common and can make even simple movements like walking difficult.
- Lower Back Strains: Car accidents put a lot of stress on your lower back, especially if you’re hit from behind. You might experience pain in your muscles and ligaments, making it tough to sit, stand, or even sleep comfortably.
Immediate Steps to Take After Sustaining a Soft Tissue Injury
If you suspect that you might have sustained a soft tissue injury, it’s essential to prioritize your health while protecting your legal rights. Here’s what you can do:
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Get Medical Attention
Even if your symptoms seem mild, it’s important to see a doctor who can diagnose and treat the injury. Documentation of your injuries will be essential if you purchase a personal injury claim.
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Gather Evidence
Collect and document all relevant information related to your injury. This includes photos of the accident scene, witness statements, medical records, and any communication with the at-fault party or their insurance company.
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Consult an Attorney
While you can file a claim on your own, working with an experienced personal injury lawyer can improve your chances of a successful outcome. They can help you navigate legal complexities, handle negotiations, and represent your interests.
How We Can Help
At Savage, Royall & Sheheen, LLP, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that a soft tissue injury after a car accident can take on you. Our experienced personal injury attorneys will ensure you get the compensation you need. We will help with your case by:
- Investigating the Accident: We’ll work to gather evidence, including witness statements, police reports, and medical records, to build a strong case on your behalf.
- Negotiating With Insurance Companies: Insurance companies may try to downplay soft tissue injuries because they aren’t as visible as other types of injuries. We’ll advocate for fair compensation to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Taking It to Litigation if Necessary: If we can’t reach a fair settlement, we will take your case to court and fight for your rights.
Contact Our Personal Injury Attorneys Today
We understand that a soft tissue injury after a car accident can leave you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what steps to take next.
These injuries may not always be visible, but their mark on your daily life remains real.
That’s why we’re here—to help you every step of the way and ensure you don’t have to face the challenges of recovery or the legal process on your own.
With over 97 years of serving individual clients, community businesses, and local governments, Savage, Royall & Sheheen, LLP, stands as a pillar of support, offering experienced legal guidance through your most challenging times.
Some of our attorneys have not only held significant state government and judicial positions but are also proud Rotarians, demonstrating a deep commitment to service and community welfare.
Having the resources and experience necessary to tackle even the most difficult cases, we are well-prepared to advocate for your rights. We will ensure you receive the comprehensive medical evaluations and compensation you deserve.
Contact our personal injury attorneys at 803-432-4391 to request a consultation.