Many people assume that only high-speed car crashes lead to serious injuries. This is a common misunderstanding.
The truth is that low-speed accidents can still cause lasting physical harm. Even a crash at just 10 or 15 miles per hour can leave someone in pain for weeks or longer.
Why low-speed accidents still hurt
Low-speed collisions often happen in parking lots, residential areas or during stop-and-go traffic. The vehicles may not be badly damaged, but the people inside can still suffer. This is because the human body absorbs the force of the impact, even when the crash seems minor.
Seat belts and airbags help, but they do not prevent every type of injury. The sudden jolt can cause the head, neck or spine to move unnaturally. This can strain muscles, damage soft tissue or affect joints.
Common injuries in low-speed collisions
One of the most common injuries from a low-speed crash is whiplash. This happens when the head is quickly thrown forward and backward. It can lead to neck pain, stiffness and headaches.
Back injuries are also common, especially if the person was sitting in a twisted or tense position. Herniated discs and muscle strain can occur even without a major impact.
Concussions can happen, too. If the head strikes a window, steering wheel or headrest, the brain can be shaken inside the skull. This might cause dizziness, confusion or memory problems.
Just because a car looks fine after an accident doesn’t mean the people inside are unhurt. Some injuries take hours or even days to appear. Pain and stiffness can develop after adrenaline wears off. It’s important to take all accidents seriously, even the low-speed ones. If you have been injured, you may want to explore your options in terms of personal injury compensation.