Low Impact Car Accident Injuries

When people think of car accidents and the resulting injuries, they often think of high-speed collisions and a dramatic scenario. While these accidents certainly cause serious injuries, low-speed accidents can also cause significant injuries. Low impact car accident injuries are common and can sometimes require long-term rehabilitation. If you have been injured in a low impact accident, you must seek medical treatment immediately, even if you do not feel that you are hurt. A proper medical examination can assess your condition and prevent you from exacerbating your injuries… even if, at the time, they seem small and/or insignifigant.

How Do Low Impact Accidents Happen?

Low impact accidents generally happen at a low speed of under ten miles per hour. It is common for the vehicles involved in these accidents to have very minimal damage, but the human body cannot absorb impact like a car or a truck can. The body inside the vehicle moves at the speed of impact, meaning that at even ten miles per hour, your body can sustain severe damage.

These accidents can happen to pedestrians at a crosswalk, vehicles colliding in a drive-through, failure to set a brake properly, and more. These accidents are commonly due to driver error and inattentiveness.

Are Low Impact Car Accident Injuries Serious?

Low impact car accident injuries can be serious, especially if they are not adequately treated. Common injuries include:

Whiplash
Concussions (Traumatic Brain Injuries)
Seatbelt (Bruises and Strains)
Soft Tissue Injuries

Whiplash happens when the head abruptly snaps forward and backward. It causes a pull to the muscles and tendons in the neck and is a soft tissue injury that can lead to even more severe injuries if not treated correctly over time.

Concussions are considered a traumatic brain injury that can also lead to more serious problems if not treated. Other soft tissue injuries include sprains, strains, and tears on various parts of the body. While the seatbelt is essential and can hold you in place during an accident, it can also cause bruises and strains upon impact. All these injuries are possible in a low impact car accident and can have serious repercussions if they are not treated by a trained professional.

Physical Therapy Treatment for Low Impact Injuries

Physical therapy is often recommended for people who have been injured in car accidents. It can speed up recovery and assist with pain management. It is also beneficial for improving your mobility and range of motion. Your physical therapist will review your medical records and examine you to create an appropriate treatment plan for your needs. That treatment plan can be adjusted as you go to match your progression.