Why car crash crush injuries are often catastrophic

On Behalf of | Jul 14, 2024 | Motor Vehicle Accidents |

Discussions of catastrophic car crash injuries often focus on three specific injuries. People generally focus on amputations, brain injuries and spinal cord injuries as the most severe non-fatal injuries possible. A vehicle occupant who suffers one of those injuries is likely to have tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars in financial losses. They may experience medical challenges and functional limitations that impact them for the rest of their lives.

Yet, there are other injuries that can be equally severe and expensive following a motor vehicle collision. For example, crush injuries are somewhat common and frequently have catastrophic consequences for the person affected.

What causes a crush injury?

As the name implies, a crush injury occurs when there is violent compression of a body part. Motor vehicle collisions often cause crush injuries to people’s extremities, frequently an arm or a leg. The intense force of the collision or the way the vehicle crumples can cause severe crush injuries to the affected body part. The pressure causes severe tissue damage that can cause permanent medical challenges.

Why are crush injuries often so severe?

A crush injury tends to result in multiple fractures. People may have comminuted fractures where the bone breaks into numerous irregular and small pieces. Such injuries are not eligible for basic medical treatment that works for minor fractures. Instead, the individual may require surgery. In fact, crush injuries often necessitate a series of multiple operations over the course of multiple months for the person to regain function and retain the affected body part. People may also suffer extreme damage to connective tissue and cartilage. Nerve damage is also common in crush injury scenarios.

Sometimes, medical professionals have to make the difficult decision to surgically amputate the affected body part. It may not be possible to preserve the body part without endangering someone’s overall health or quality of life. A crush injury can result in massive medical expenses. The long-term implications of the injury can also affect someone’s employment or their ability to live independently.

Those with catastrophic collision injuries often have a difficult time securing adequate compensation for their losses. Reviewing insurance coverage and looking into litigation with the assistance of a skilled legal team may be necessary for those with severe injuries caused by a wreck.