Winter might bring cozy nights by the fire, but it also marks the start of a hidden danger: icy roads and a higher risk of car accidents. National data shows that more than 156,000 car crashes happen every year in winter weather conditions.
One of the biggest dangers? Black ice. Let’s take a look at some of the most common injuries caused by black ice car accidents and, more importantly, what you should do after experiencing one.
5 Common Black Ice Car Accident Injuries
Given the sudden loss of control and potential for impacts, black ice car accidents often lead to specific types of injuries, including:
- Whiplash: This is perhaps the most common injury in black ice car accidents, especially those involving sudden stops or changes in direction. Whiplash is a neck injury caused by a forceful, rapid back-and-forth movement of the neck, like the cracking of a whip. It can result in neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and dizziness.
- Back injuries: The force of a black ice collision can wrench your back, causing painful sprains, strains, or even herniated discs. This can lead to debilitating pain, difficulty moving, and a long road to recovery.
- Head injuries: Even a seemingly minor bump to the head in a black ice car accident can have lasting consequences. Concussions and other brain injuries can cause headaches, dizziness, memory problems, and difficulty concentrating, making it hard to return to work or your normal activities.
- Broken bones: The impact of colliding with another vehicle or object can easily lead to fractures. Broken arms, legs, ribs, and collarbones are common in black ice car accidents, often requiring casts, surgery, and painful physical therapy.
- Spinal cord injuries: In the most severe cases, black ice accidents can result in devastating spinal cord injuries. These injuries can cause partial or complete paralysis, requiring specialized medical care and long-term support.
Learn more about the car accident pain scale and what it means for your claim.
What To Do If You’ve Suffered These Black Ice Car Accident Injuries
If you’re reading this, you or someone you know has already experienced the shock and confusion of a black ice car accident. You might be dealing with excruciating pain, wondering what to do next, and feeling overwhelmed.
While every situation is unique, here are the most important steps to take following a black ice car accident to ensure you receive the care and support you need.
Seek medical attention
It’s easy to downplay your injuries after a car accident, especially when you’re caught up in the shock and adrenaline of the moment. You might think, “I’m fine, just a little shaken up.”
But here’s the thing: some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, can be sneaky —the impact might not fully reveal itself until days or even weeks later. That’s why it’s absolutely crucial to get a thorough medical evaluation, even if you initially feel okay. Think of it as an investment in your long-term health.
But who should you see? A doctor or a chiropractor? The answer often depends on your specific needs. Chiropractors are experts in diagnosing and treating injuries related to your spine and joints. They use hands-on techniques to get your body back into alignment and reduce pain, often without relying on medications or surgery.
Doctors, on the other hand, have a big-picture view. They can address a wider range of injuries, from broken bones to internal issues and head trauma. They might order X-rays or MRIs to get a closer look, and they can prescribe medications if needed.
In many cases, it’s a good idea to see both a chiropractor and a medical doctor. This way, you get a comprehensive assessment and a treatment plan that addresses all aspects of your injuries.
And don’t forget: getting checked out isn’t just about feeling better — it also creates an official record of your injuries linked to the accident. This documentation is essential when it comes to insurance claims and any potential legal action.
Contact your insurance company
Once you’ve addressed your immediate medical needs, it’s time to report the accident to your insurance company. Be prepared to provide them with accurate details about the accident, but be cautious about the information you share.
Keep these tips in mind:
- Be honest but concise: Provide the basic facts of the accident, but avoid speculating about the cause or admitting fault.
- Keep records: Document all communication with your insurance company, including dates, times, and the names of individuals you speak with.
- Don’t accept a quick settlement: Insurance companies may try to settle claims quickly. Don’t rush into a settlement before you fully understand the extent of your injuries and long-term needs.
Consult with a personal injury lawyer
Black ice car accidents are like a legal puzzle — not just because of the injuries themselves, but because figuring out who’s responsible can be complicated. That’s why it’s so important to have a car accident attorney on your side who understands the nuances of these cases.
We can help you:
- Establish negligence: Black ice can be treacherous, but safe driving practices are crucial in winter conditions. A lawyer can investigate whether the other driver was speeding, driving recklessly, or not taking proper precautions for the icy conditions, which could make them liable for your accident.
- Dealing with complex insurance claims: Insurance companies may try to downplay the severity of your injuries or argue that you were at fault for not driving cautiously enough. We can fight back against these tactics and make sure you get the compensation you deserve.
- Proving the extent of your damages: Black ice car accident injuries can have a ripple effect. You might be dealing with medical bills for months or even years. Similarly, you might not be able to work. A lawyer can help you calculate all these costs, so you’re not left footing the bill for someone else’s negligence.
At Slater & Zurz, we know that a black ice accident can turn your world upside down. Our team of dedicated personal injury lawyers has spent 30+ years guiding people through these difficult times — and we’re here to put this experience to work for you. Ready for someone to listen to your story, answer your questions, and explain your options? Call us today at 330-762-0700 for a free consultation.
