There are various types of leg injuries from car accidents. Broken bones are one of the most common car accident leg injuries. However, the injuries can go beyond broken bones.
Sometimes, leg injuries may be life-threatening when they cause damage to nerves, blood vessels, and spinal cord. Some of the most common leg injuries that cause severe leg pain after car accident are as follows:
- Broken Bones
- Bruises
- ACL Injuries
- Meniscus Injuries
- Soft Tissue Injuries
Broken Bones
Broken bones are one of the most common injuries caused due to common car collisions. The leg consists of 4 significant bones, including the tibia, smaller fibula, femur (thigh bone), and patella (kneecap).
- Tibia and the smaller fibula
The tibia is the larger of the two lower leg bones, and the fibula is the thinner bone next to it. Tibia fractures are common and can range from hairline cracks to complete breaks. Fibula fractures often accompany tibia fractures.
- Femur
The femur is the longest and strongest bone in the body. Femur fractures are serious and typically result from high-impact injuries like car accidents or falls from height.
- Patella
The patella, or kneecap, is a small bone protecting the front of the knee joint. Patella fractures can occur from direct impact or forceful contraction of the quadriceps muscles.
Bruises
Bruises, or contusions, can often accompany leg injuries sustained in a car accident. The impact force can cause blood vessels beneath the skin to rupture, resulting in visible discoloration and swelling.
While bruises might seem minor, they can indicate more profound tissue damage, particularly when associated with other symptoms like pain, swelling, or limited movement.
ACL Injuries
ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) injuries are a notable concern among leg injuries sustained in car accidents. The sudden impact and forceful movements during a collision can lead to ACL tears or strains.
ACL injuries can hinder mobility and cause long-term disability if not addressed promptly.
Meniscus Injuries
Meniscus injuries are significant leg concerns arising from car accidents due to the abrupt force and twisting motions on the knee. The meniscus, a C-shaped cartilage in the knee joint, can tear or become damaged during impact.
While often associated with sports injuries, meniscus injuries can also result from car accidents, affecting mobility and causing discomfort.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries are common leg injuries in car accidents due to sudden impact and force. Sometimes, these injuries may also be the outcome of drinking and driving. These injuries affect muscles, tendons, and ligaments, leading to pain, swelling, and reduced mobility.
Whiplash, strains, and sprains are typical soft tissue injuries from car collisions. Even though some of the worst car accident injuries, like fractures, might not be immediately visible, soft tissue injuries can be debilitating and require proper medical attention.
What Are the Symptoms of Leg Injury?
Symptoms of a leg injury can vary depending on the type and severity of the injury. Common symptoms of a leg injury include:
- Pain: Pain in the leg can range from mild discomfort to severe and sharp pain, depending on the extent of the injury.
- Swelling: Swelling around the injured area is a typical response to tissue damage and inflammation.
- Bruising: Bruising, or contusions, may develop due to blood vessels under the skin breaking from the impact.
- Limited Range of Motion: Injured legs may experience reduced flexibility and movement due to pain and swelling.
- Deformity: Severe injuries can lead to visible changes in the leg’s alignment or shape.
- Tenderness: Tenderness to touch or pressure around the injured area is often present.
- Difficulty Walking: Depending on the severity, walking or bearing weight on the injured leg might be challenging or painful.
- Numbness or Tingling: Nerve-related symptoms like numbness, tingling, or a “pins and needles” sensation can occur with specific leg injuries.
- Open Wounds or Bleeding: Cuts, abrasions, or puncture wounds may lead to visible bleeding or open injuries.
- Difficulty Standing: If the injury affects your ability to bear weight on the leg, standing might be difficult or impossible.
What Causes Leg Injuries in a Car Accident?
Leg injuries in a car accident can result from various factors. The sudden impact and force generated during a collision can lead to direct trauma to the legs, causing fractures, dislocations, and soft tissue injuries.
The legs might also be trapped or pinned due to the deformation of the vehicle, leading to crushing injuries. In accidents with abrupt deceleration or change in direction, occupants can be thrown within the car, hitting their legs against the dashboard, door, or other interior components.
Can I Get Compensation for My Leg Injury After a Car Accident?
Yes, you may be eligible for compensation for your leg injury in a minor car accident or multiple-car accident scenario, especially if someone else’s negligence caused the accident. Compensation can cover medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages related to the injury.
How can a lawyer help after a leg injury from a car accident?
You may hire an experienced personal injury attorney to help you assess the specifics of your case, determine liability, and guide you through the legal process to seek the appropriate compensation for your leg injury.
Furthermore, they can assist by evaluating your case, gathering evidence, and negotiating with insurance companies.