What Injuries Can Cause Death in a Car Accident?

Which Car Accident Injuries are Most Commonly Fatal?

Certain injuries from car accidents are more likely to result in death than others. Here are some of the most common fatal injuries:

• Head injuries: Traumatic brain injuries, concussions, skull fractures, and contusions cause a majority of car accident deaths. These injuries can occur when the head strikes the steering wheel or another hard surface, causing the brain to shake within the skull. These injuries can lead to severe brain damage, coma, or death.
• Spinal cord injuries: The spinal cord connects the brain to the rest of the body, so damage here can result in paralysis or death.
• Internal bleeding: This type of injury occurs when the impact from a car accident causes blood vessels or organs to rupture. The danger lies in the fact that internal bleeding isn’t always immediately visible. By the time symptoms appear, it might be too late to save the victim.
• Chest injuries: Damage to the heart, lungs, and major blood vessels can be fatal. The force of a collision can fracture ribs and puncture internal organs. Blunt trauma to the chest can also cause cardiac arrest.
• Severe burns: Car accidents sometimes result in fires or explosions, leading to severe burns covering large areas of the body, which can be fatal.

Which Car Accident Types Result in the Most Deaths?

Certain types of car accidents are more likely to result in fatalities due to the nature of the impact and the forces involved. These include:

• Head-on collisions: This is when two vehicles traveling in opposite directions crash into each other front-first. These accidents are often fatal due to the speeds involved and the fact that the car’s front end, where the driver is seated, bears the brunt of the impact.
• T-bone accidents: Also known as side-impact collisions, T-bone accidents happen when the front of one vehicle crashes into the side of another. These accidents are particularly dangerous for the occupants on the side of the car that gets hit.
• Rollover accidents: Rollovers involve a vehicle flipping onto its side or roof. These accidents can be particularly deadly due to the potential for occupants to be ejected from the vehicle if they are not wearing seatbelts.
• Rear-end collisions: While generally less fatal than other accidents, rear-end collisions can still result in deaths, especially at high speeds. Fatalities are more likely if the rear-ended vehicle is pushed into oncoming traffic or other obstacles.
• Multi-vehicle pileups: Highways are the most common places for multi-vehicle pileups. These accidents are particularly deadly due to the high speeds at which they usually occur, the multiple impacts some cars sustain, and the difficulty for emergency responders to reach and treat victims quickly.
• Pedestrian, bicycle, and motorcycle accidents: Collisions involving victims who are not inside a car are often fatal due to the lack of protection. When a vehicle strikes a pedestrian, bicyclist, or motorcyclist, the force of the impact can cause life-threatening injuries, especially if the collision occurs at high speed.

What Steps Should I Take If a Car Accident Kills My Loved One?

Losing a loved one in a car accident is devastating. Here’s how to navigate this difficult time:

• Seek immediate medical help to get first responders on the scene. These professionals can confirm the death and provide any necessary documentation.
• Report the accident to the police and make sure a thorough investigation is conducted. Obtain a copy of the police report for future reference.
• Document the scene and gather contact information from witnesses.
• Notify your insurance company about the accident and the death of your loved one.
• Consult a car accident attorney who can guide you through the legal process and help you file a wrongful death claim.

Does Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer Help?

Relying on a car accident lawyer after losing a loved one in a car accident eases the burden during this difficult time. A lawyer can help you conduct a thorough investigation, gather evidence, and work with experts to build a strong case. Their negotiating skills help ensure fair compensation for your loss and reduce the chance of ending up in court. Even so, if your case goes to trial, a lawyer will represent you to achieve the best possible outcome.

Get Experienced Legal Help from a Car Accident Attorney in Tracy, CA

Nothing compares to losing a loved one in a tragic car accident. Bakerink, McCusker & Belden can support you legally and emotionally as we help you fight for justice. If your loved one was killed in an auto collision, contact us at (209) 835-9592 to request a free consultation. We’ll put our 35 years of legal experience to work for you