Car Accidents & Face Injuries

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Written by Auto Accident Team

Last Updated: August 26, 2024

Car accidents can be terrifying experiences, leaving behind physical and emotional scars. Some of the most common types of injuries sustained in car accidents are those to the face. These facial injuries can range from minor bruises and cuts to more serious and life-changing injuries. 

Beyond dental trauma, victims may suffer fractures to the facial bones, leading to prolonged recovery periods. In severe cases, facial reconstruction surgery might be required, leaving lasting physical and psychological impacts on the car accident victims.

If you were injured in a car accident, you may be dealing with serious physical discomfort and potential emotional distress. The healing process for such injuries is not only time-consuming but also a financial burden due to medical bills and loss of earnings during recovery. 

The Auto Accident Team understands the gravity of these circumstances and works relentlessly to support victims through the recovery process. Our network of dedicated car accident lawyers is here to help ease your burdens and guide you on the path towards justice.

What Are Common Facial Injuries From Car Accidents?

Car accidents can result in a variety of injuries to the face, ranging from minor to severe. These injuries typically occur due to the forceful impact during a crash, leading to direct contact of the face with either the steering wheel, dashboard, airbag, windshield, side window, car seats, or shattered glass. 

Most common types of Face Injuries

  • Facial fractures: These are typically the result of a hard impact and can affect any bone in the face, including the nose, jaw, cheekbone, forehead, or eye socket.
  • Dental injuries: These might include cracked or broken teeth. It may even include teeth that are completely knocked out.
  • Soft tissue injuries: These include injuries to the skin and underlying tissue, typically caused by flying glass or debris, resulting in cuts, bruises, or lacerations.
  • Eye injuries: This might involve temporary or permanent damage to the eyesight due to broken glass or airbag impact.
  • Burns: These may occur if there’s an explosion or fire during the accident.
  • Airbag injuries: While airbag deployment saves lives, they can cause facial impact injuries that may include burns, cuts, or fractures.

Seeking a medical evaluation after an accident is crucial even if the injury seems minor, as some conditions may not show immediate symptoms but could develop over time into severe health issues. 

Additionally, mental health considerations are also vital. Emotional trauma from an accident can result in anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder. It is not uncommon for survivors to have a fear of driving after experiencing a severe accident.

What Are the Causes of Facial Injuries in Car Accidents?

Facial injuries in car accidents can occur in a variety of ways, each stemming from the dynamics and force of the collision. 

One common cause is airbag deployment. While airbags are crucial for preventing more severe injuries, their rapid expansion can sometimes cause facial abrasions or burns upon impact. Additionally, the sheer force of an airbag can lead to bruising or even fractures to the face. 

Collision impact with the vehicle’s interior is another significant cause. The force of the crash may propel individuals forward or to the side, causing their face to collide with the steering wheel, dashboard, or windows. Such impacts can result in a wide range of injuries, from cuts and bruises to severe fractures and dental damage. 

Flying debris also poses a risk during accidents. Shattered glass from windows or windshields, along with loose objects within the car, can become projectiles that inflict cuts, lacerations, or puncture wounds on the face. 

Lastly, the force exerted by a seatbelt can cause an individual’s head to snap forward abruptly, leading to potential injury from subsequent impact with part of the vehicle or by the seat belt itself in extreme cases. 

How Can You Prevent Facial Injuries in Car Accidents?

Preventing injuries to the face during car accidents involves a combination of safety practices and awareness. While not all injuries can be completely avoided, taking certain precautions can significantly reduce the risk. 

Here are some crucial steps to help protect your face in the event of a car accident: 

  • Proper seat belt use: Always wear your seatbelt, ensuring it is snugly fastened and positioned correctly. The lap belt should lay across your hips, not your stomach, and the shoulder belt should cross the center of your chest and shoulder, not your neck or face. This helps restrain you securely during a collision. 
  • Airbag safety: Airbags are designed to work in tandem with seatbelts. Ensure your seat is positioned at a safe distance from the airbag, ideally at least 10 inches away, to prevent injuries. Also, maintain a proper driving position with both hands on the wheel, which helps avoid putting your face in the path of an inflating airbag. 
  • Securing loose objects: Keep the car interior free from loose objects that can turn into projectiles during a crash. Secure heavy items in the trunk or storage compartments, and avoid placing hard or sharp objects on seats or dashboards where they can easily become hazardous in an accident. 
  • Defensive driving: Adopt defensive driving techniques such as keeping a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you, being aware of your surroundings, and avoiding distractions. 

Anticipating potential hazards and practicing safe driving habits can greatly reduce the likelihood of an accident, thereby minimizing the chance of facial injuries.

What Legal Options Are Available After Sustaining Facial Injuries in a Car Accident?

After sustaining facial injuries in a car accident, exploring legal options is crucial for securing treatment, compensation, and support during recovery. Victims may be entitled to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at fault party, aiming to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. It’s important to gather all necessary documentation, such as medical records and accident reports, to build a strong case.

Consulting with a qualified car accident lawyer is highly advisable. A lawyer skilled in car accident claims can offer invaluable advice on the legal proceedings, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and ensure that your rights are fully protected. They can also help in determining the best course of action, whether it’s pursuing a settlement or taking the case to court.

How a Car Accident Lawyer From Our Network Can Help

If you’ve sustained facial injuries in a car accident, navigating the legal process can be overwhelming while dealing with your recovery. The Auto Accident Team is here to support you every step of the way. Our network of dedicated attorneys understands the complexities of car accident cases and will work tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Don’t let the aftermath of a car accident control your life. Contact The Auto Accident Team today for a free consultation. Our network of compassionate and skilled attorneys is ready to advocate for your rights and help you secure the financial support you need to move forward. Call us now at (877) 236-2391 or fill out our contact form.

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