Common Injuries Caused by Drowsy Driving Accidents

In the American city of New York, approximately 230,000 motor vehicle accidents occur every year. This equates to roughly 630 accidents taking place every day in New York City. Queens is one of the most populous boroughs in New York. There is no doubt that many Queens residents have either witnessed or been involved in a vehicular accident.

In today's fast-paced society, one of the biggest causes of accidents is falling asleep at the wheel. Drowsy drivers not only put their life in jeopardy, but also become a hazard to those around them. Being the victim of a drowsy driving accident can result in serious injuries. In many cases, you may be able to be compensated for medical expenses and lost wages caused by your injury. This is why you should contact a lawyer as soon as possible after an accident.

The liability for injuries sustained in an accident fall on the at-fault driver, which in cases of drowsy driving accidents, is the driver who fell asleep at the wheel. Below are just some of the injuries that a drowsy driving accident can cause.

Fractures
Fractures, muscle pulls, and ligament and tendon tears are the most common injuries caused by car accidents. Furthermore, if a drowsy driver collides into a pedestrian at full speed, the result may be several broken bones. Fractures can take years to heal completely, and victims may suffer the aftereffects for the rest of their lives.

Brain Injuries and Head Trauma
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can range from mild to severe. In certain cases, they may be fatal. Head trauma can result in the loss of simple bodily functions and thoughts. They can negatively impact memory, coordination, and result in imbalance. Other potential symptoms include severe mood swings, depression and a difference in one's ability to smell, hear and taste. Brain injuries require long-term treatment which can cost millions of dollars.

Back Injuries
Any injury to the spinal cord is not only painful, but can also result in permanent damage. Victims of such injuries may lose sensation below the point of impact or end up with limited movement. Spinal cord injuries can also result in paralysis. Similar to treatment for brain injuries, spinal cord treatment can add up to millions of dollars, as well as change a person's way of life forever.

Internal Bleeding
Not all injuries are visible at first sight. Upon impact, one may not realize that something isn't medically right. All victims of drowsy driving accidents should seek medical attention immediately. Internal hemorrhaging, when left untreated, can result in death as blood pools outside your vessels. In some cases, an amputation may be required to save the victim's life.

The negligent and reckless actions of a drowsy driver can change a person's life forever. It is not only physically excruciating but is also emotionally and mentally exhausting. Many victims and their families may suffer from a post-traumatic stress disorder and other mental health issues.

Should you or your loved ones find yourselves at the receiving end of a drowsy driver's careless antics, contact a lawyer immediately. You deserve fair compensation for expenses related to your injury, and the right attorney will strive their hardest to get it for you.