When you think about car accident injuries, you may first think of a concussion from hitting your head or injuries to your arms from the airbag. However, did you know that knee injuries are surprisingly common in car accidents? When you’re seated and a sudden impact happens, your knee can twist, stretch, a jerk around, causing many types of injuries.
After a crash, if you have any of the following symptoms, you should get your knee checked out immediately by a medical professional:
- Discoloration
- Pain
- Limited range of motion
- Weakness
- Fluid build up
- Warmth or coolness
The above can all be signs of serious knee injuries. Some common knee conditions that can result from car crashes include:
- Dislocation - If your knee slams into the dash or a door with force, it can cause your knee to dislocate. This injury can get substantially worse and major complications can arise quickly if you do not receive proper treatment.
- Strains and sprains - Your knee has a lot of soft tissue components, including tendons, ligaments, muscle, and more. If your knee bends, twists, or stretches in an unnatural way, you can tear, sprain, or strain your soft tissue. The pain from this injury can be severe and some people eventually need surgery.
- Fractures - Your knee cap can fracture just like any other bone in your body. When you suffer a knee fracture, your knee will likely appear to be deformed and discolored. Doctors may put on a cast or may have you wear a stabilizer for weeks. You may need surgery if doctors do not think the bone will heal correctly without pins or plates.
- Cartilage tears - Cartilage surrounds your knee, providing cushioning and protection. When this cartilage tears, it can be painful and can limit your movement, cause swelling, and lead to a stiff joint.
- Ligament injuries - Your knee has some of the most well-known ligaments in the body, including your anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), and the medial collateral ligament (MCL). Damage to these ligaments can cause pain and restricted movement. Many people need surgery is they tear one of these important ligaments.
Most people do not realize how serious knee injuries can be until they experience one. If you feel pain or stiffness in your knee or notice swelling or discoloration, head to the emergency room right away. In fact, it is always a good idea to get a medical evaluation after a car crash even if you can’t identify specific injuries. Your doctor can conduct tests to diagnose knee injuries so you can begin your treatment right away.
How Our Connecticut Car Accident Lawyers Can Help
If someone else caused your car accident, you deserve full compensation from that party for your medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost income, and other losses. The car accident attorneys at the law office of Leighton, Katz & Drapeau in Hartford can help and protect your rights. Call (860) 875-7000 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation with a member of our team.
