What Happens If You Are Hit in the Back of Your Car?
Getting hit in the rear by another vehicle can change your day in more ways than one. It is more than just a fender bender. A hit in the rear can hurt your body, cause lasting pain, and leave you struggling with costly medical bills. In a rear end accident, the impact from a hit in the rear can cause neck injury and back injury, even if the damage to your car seems minor.
Immediate Effects of a Hit in the Rear
When you are hit in the rear, the force of the impact can send your head snapping forward. This sudden motion can lead to whiplash, which is a common result of a hit in the rear. Some immediate effects may include:
Sudden jolt and shock
Neck injury that causes pain and stiffness
Back injury that might not show up immediately
Even if your car shows only minor damage, the physical impact of a hit in the rear can have hidden consequences. For some, this may later develop into a bulging disc, herniated disc, or a permeated disc case. If you experience pain after a hit in the rear, it is important to get medical attention right away.
Long-Term Consequences
A hit in the rear can lead to more than just immediate pain. Over time, the injuries may worsen, and you might face long-term issues that affect your daily life. Some long-term consequences include:
Chronic neck and back pain that interferes with simple movements
Development of a bulging disc or a permeated disc case requiring epidural injections
Possibility of more serious treatments like fusion surgery or even hip replacements in severe cases
Hidden dangers such as RSD - reflex sympathetic dystrophy, where symptoms may not appear right away
A hit in the rear can lead to complications that make the recovery process long and challenging. If pain lingers or if you notice your mobility is affected, do not wait to seek help.
Other Risks and Complications
The risk of injury from a hit in the rear goes beyond neck and back injuries. In some cases, the impact can cause:
A slip and fall like feeling when you try to walk, leading to additional injuries similar to a trip and fall
Strain on your lower back that causes chronic discomfort
In rare instances, a degloving injury or even burn injuries if a fire or explosion occurs immediately after the accident
These complications add to the emotional and financial burden and can be as serious as injuries from construction site accidents or slip and fall incidents.
What to Do If You Are Hit in the Rear
If you experience a hit in the rear, it is crucial to take the right steps immediately:
Get Medical Help: Even if you feel fine, a hit in the rear can cause injuries that develop later. Seeing a doctor early can prevent future complications
Document the Accident: Keep records of any injuries, take photos of the scene, and note any details
Seek Legal Advice: If you are hit in the rear, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills and lost wages. Contact a lawyer who understands rear ended accidents
How Segal Law Firm Can Help
At Segal Law Firm, we stand ready to help if you have been hit in the rear. Our team is experienced in handling rear ended accidents and can help you navigate the complex legal process so you can focus on healing and moving forward with your life. A hit in the rear is not just a traffic accident, it is a life-changing event.
If you are hit in the rear, do not suffer in silence, seek help and get the legal support you deserve.