T-bone car accidents, also called side-impact crashes, happen when the front of one car hits the side of another. These types of crashes are dangerous. They often lead to serious injuries because there is not much space or protection between the impact and the people inside the car. When a car is hit from the side, the force can cause the body to twist or slam into the inside of the vehicle. In many cases, the injuries can be long-lasting or even life-changing.
Below are the most common injuries people suffer in a T-bone crash, what signs to look out for, and how they might affect you.
Whiplash
Whiplash is one of the most common injuries in a side-impact collision. It happens when the neck suddenly jerks back and forth. This can stretch or tear muscles and ligaments in the neck and upper back.
Symptoms of whiplash may include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and trouble moving your head. Sometimes, these signs don’t show up right away. They may appear hours or even days after the crash. Whiplash can range from mild to severe. Some people recover quickly, while others may need physical therapy or ongoing care.
Chest Injuries
The chest area is close to where the car door is usually hit in a T-bone accident. This means the chest takes a lot of force during the crash. Chest injuries may include bruises, broken ribs, or damage to organs like the lungs.
A seatbelt can also press hard against the chest during a crash, which can lead to bruising or internal bleeding. If ribs are broken, they can poke or damage nearby organs. Trouble breathing, chest pain, or swelling could be signs of a serious injury. These injuries often need imaging tests to confirm the damage.
Spinal Cord Injuries
The spine runs down the back and helps you move and feel. When it gets injured in a crash, it can lead to major problems. Some spinal injuries can cause numbness, loss of movement, or even paralysis.
In a T-bone accident, the body may twist sharply or be hit from the side, putting extra pressure on the spine. Back pain, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs should be checked right away. Some spinal injuries need surgery or months of rehab. Others may cause long-term changes to how a person walks, sits, or lives daily life.
Brain Injuries
The brain can get hurt in a crash even without hitting anything directly. A sudden stop or twist can make the brain move inside the skull, leading to a concussion or traumatic brain injury (TBI).
Signs of a brain injury may include headaches, memory loss, confusion, mood changes, or feeling dizzy. In serious cases, people may have seizures, vision problems, or trouble speaking. Brain injuries can have effects that last for weeks, months, or longer. Even mild symptoms should be taken seriously.
Fractures and Broken Bones
Broken bones are very common in T-bone crashes. Arms, legs, ribs, and hips are all at risk. These injuries happen when the body hits the inside of the car or gets crushed by the force of the impact.
Fractures can be simple, where the bone cracks but stays in place, or more serious, where the bone breaks into pieces. Some breaks need a cast, while others require surgery and physical therapy. A broken bone can keep someone from working, driving, or doing daily tasks for weeks or months.
Abdominal Injuries
The stomach area holds many organs like the liver, kidneys, and intestines. In a side-impact crash, these organs can get hurt if something presses or hits them.
Signs of an abdominal injury include belly pain, swelling, nausea, or blood in the urine. These injuries are not always easy to spot right away, which is why it’s important to get checked after a crash. Damage to organs may need surgery and can lead to serious problems if untreated.
Pelvic Injuries
The pelvis is the group of bones at the bottom of the spine that help support the body. In a T-bone crash, especially on the driver’s or passenger’s side, the pelvis can take a strong hit.
Pelvic injuries may include fractures or joint damage. These injuries can make it hard or painful to walk, sit, or move. Healing can take a long time and may require bed rest, physical therapy, or even surgery. In severe cases, these injuries can affect mobility long-term.
Lacerations and Bruises
Cuts and bruises may not sound serious, but they can be painful and lead to other problems. Broken glass, torn metal, or loose items inside the car can cut the skin during a crash.
Bruises may look minor but could mean deeper damage underneath. Large cuts may need stitches, and deep wounds can leave scars or cause infection. Even small injuries should be cleaned and checked by a doctor.
Internal Injuries
Internal injuries are hidden but can be very dangerous. This includes internal bleeding or organ damage that isn’t easy to see without tests.
People involved in a T-bone crash might not know they have internal injuries until symptoms show up. These could be fainting, belly swelling, fast heartbeat, or deep pain. If untreated, these injuries can become life-threatening. Doctors often use scans to find and treat these problems as quickly as possible.
Psychological Injuries
Not all injuries from a T-bone crash are physical. Many people also suffer emotionally. Some experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression after a serious crash.
Emotional trauma can affect sleep, appetite, memory, and mood. People may avoid driving, riding in a car, or even going near traffic. Talking to a mental health professional can help. Emotional recovery is just as important as physical healing.
Get Legal Help After a T-Bone Crash
If you were hurt in a T-bone car accident, you don’t have to go through it alone. Injuries from these crashes can lead to high medical bills, missed work, and long-term problems. It’s important to understand your rights and explore options to recover costs for your injuries and suffering.
Friedman Injury Law is ready to help people who have been through side-impact crashes. If you’ve been injured in an auto accident, call (702) 970-4222 to speak with someone about your case and learn what steps you can take next.
