Because of the force exerted in a car accident, there is no limit on what type and how severe injuries may be. Everything from minor scrapes to significant trauma can occur. Many factors contribute to the kind of injury you may sustain. However, some car accident injuries are more common than others.
Michigan Car Crash Data
According to the Michigan State Police Statewide Traffic Crash Data Year End Report for 2021 (the most recent year available), approximately 283,000 crashes were reported. In that same year, crashes caused 71,246 injuries and 1,131 fatalities.
Most crashes happened in October (29,833) and November (30,666), with fatal crashes more commonly occurring in August (124). Traffic accidents are more common on Fridays (46,614); however, fatal accidents occur more on Saturdays (182) and Sundays (178). There is a distinct difference between times of day as well. Most crashes occur between 3:00 p.m. and 5:59 p.m. (62,881). Most fatal crashes occur between 6:00 p.m. and 8:59 p.m. (211).
Common Causes of Accidents in Wayne County
The Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning also compiles information about crashes in specific counties. A 2021 Michigan Traffic Crash Facts Report for Wayne County indicates a total of 50,490 crashes in the county. There were 16,662 injuries and 219 fatalities because of those wrecks.
Common causes of these accidents included:
- Age and inexperience – Younger drivers were more likely to have an accident.
- Following too closely – Rear end accidents were the most common type of crash.
- Improper lane use – This applies to motorcycles, cars, and trucks.
- Failure to yield right of way – This is the most known cause of crashes.
- Drunk driving – Approximately 2,715 crashes involved alcohol.
- Drugged driving – Nearly 12% of all fatal crashes in Wayne County involved drugs.
- Speeding – Nearly 3,500 crashes were caused by speeding too fast.
- Disregarding traffic controls – Failure to abide by stop signs and lights contributed to over 3,000 wrecks.
- Improper backing – Nearly 1,500 crashes were the result of people backing up.
Most crashes in Wayne County occurred in October (4,943), with more fatal crashes in March (26) than any other month. People in the 25 to 64 age group had the most crashes overall; however, people in the 16 to 20 age group had the most crashes per licensed driver. That means that people in the younger group are more likely to have an accident.
Most Dangerous Road Stretches in Detroit
Michigan has many dangerous roadways, many of which are in Detroit. Some of the most dangerous intersections and stretches of roads that lead to crashes include:
- Gratiot Avenue between East Grand Blvd. and 7 Mile
- I-75 between the I-96 and I-94 Interchange
- 7 Mile between Telegraph Road and John C. Lodge Freeway
- East Davison Street between Conant Street and I-96
- Metro Parkway (also known as 16 Mile Road)
- Washtenaw Avenue at the US-23 Intersection
10 Common Injuries from Car Accidents
Just like some causes of car accidents are more common, certain injuries are prevalent in motor vehicle wrecks.
1. Traumatic Brain Injuries
Head injuries, especially traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), are some of the most common because of the force of objects within the car upon the head. Windows, seats, and even airbags can slam into a victim’s head, causing severe trauma.
2. Soft Tissue Damage
Injuries like bruises and lacerations may not seem like a big deal, but they can lead to infection and blood clots if not monitored. Damage to any part of your body should be treated by a medical professional and routinely cleaned.
3. Back and Neck Injuries
When a car slams into another vehicle, thousands of pounds of force are transferred throughout the automobile. Your back and neck will be jerked back and forth and side to side. You can suffer severe damage to discs in your neck and back that can cause lifelong problems.
4. Whiplash
Whiplash is one of the most common injuries sustained in a car accident. However, symptoms do not always show up right away. Seek medical treatment immediately to rule out a condition like whiplash, which can lead to ongoing pain.
5. Broken Bones
The pressure exerted by parts of your car can be forceful enough to break bones in your limbs and your torso. Broken legs, arms, and ribs are common after a wreck. You will need x-rays to ensure you did not suffer a fracture.
6. Internal Trauma
You may think you’ve suffered a simple bruise; however, that bleeding may indicate something far worse, such as internal trauma to organs and blood vessels. The jostling of a car accident can cause severe damage to internal organs that may require surgery or other immediate treatment.
7. Burns
Many car accidents involve a fire that can cause a dangerous situation for everyone involved. You risk a severe burn if your skin is exposed to flames or even heated metal. While burns are harmful, the risk of infection is even more significant.
8. Seat Belt Injuries
Hopefully, you were wearing a seat belt when the crash occurred. However, the same apparatus that saves your life can also harm you. A seat belt can cause significant bruising and even broken bones in the chest and collar area due to pressure from the crash.
9. Airbag Injuries
Airbags blow out of a car with a significant amount of force, leading to trauma to the face and head. While it can prevent you from fatal injuries, the airbag may also cause a broken nose or other facial bones. Bruising, lacerations, and friction burn from airbags are also common.
10. Knee Injuries
When you sit in a car, your knees are in front of you and often take the first hit of pressure from any oncoming vehicle. The dashboard or steering wheel can slam into your knees, causing bruises and fractures. Your meniscus, which is cartilage in the knee, can tear and become twisted easily.
Why You Need a Detroit Car Accident Attorney
Working with a Detroit car accident lawyer familiar with the common injuries in a wreck is essential. You may not immediately identify all your injuries. You may have other pains and symptoms in the days and weeks after the wreck. Your attorney can help you determine the proper steps to get treatment and compensation for your damages.
A car accident lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation to determine exactly what caused your crash and who should be held liable. Then, they can help you file a claim with your insurance company or file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party. While you focus on healing, an attorney can handle all the stressful parts of the legal process.
Call Davis Injury Lawyers, PLLC Today
If you or a loved one are involved in a car accident, you should immediately contact a Detroit car accident lawyer who can guide you through a personal injury claim. At Davis Injury Lawyers, PLLC, we listen to your story and help you understand your options.
Call us today at 313-462-7979 or contact us online to begin your case.