You never know what could happen if you’re involved in a car accident. It’s your hope that you walk away without suffering an injury, but this isn’t always the case.

Here are some of the most common types of car accident injuries:

• Head injuries: This encompasses many types of injuries, such as concussions, bleeding on the brain and skull fractures.
• Broken bones: Every bone in your body is at risk of injury in a car accident. From your skull all the way down to your feet, it’s possible that an accident will result in at least one broken bone.
• Neck and back injuries: These include but are not limited to herniated disks, fractures, strains and sprains. The most serious neck and back injuries can result in paralysis.
• Burns and abrasions: For example, if your vehicle catches fire, you could suffer serious burns. If you’re ejected from your vehicle, abrasions and deep lacerations are likely.

Along with the above physical injuries, you may also suffer some type of emotional distress. After a serious accident, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is common. Depending on the severity, you may find it a challenge to operate a vehicle again in the future.

A serious motor vehicle accident can turn your life upside down. Once you begin to recover, set your sights on filing an insurance claim, reviewing the police report and collecting evidence that proves the other individual caused the accident.

Taking these steps will help you protect your legal rights, while also positioning you to receive compensation for your injuries and related damages.