Whiplash & Whiplash Injury St. Louis

Injured in a Car Accident

Avoiding a Road Rage Car Accident

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Learning how to stay calm behind the wheel and avoid road rage can help prevent car accidents and save lives.

Whether we’re stuck in traffic, dealing with aggressive drivers, or simply running late for an appointment, it can be too easy to let our emotions get the better of us when we’re behind the wheel. However, losing our cool behind the wheel can have serious consequences—not just for us but for other drivers on the road. That’s why it’s so important to learn how to stay calm behind the wheel and avoid road rage, no matter what the situation.

Here are some tips to help you stay calm behind the wheel.

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an angry driver throwing up their hand

Take It Slow

When we’re feeling stressed or anxious, it’s natural to want to speed up to reach our destination as quickly as possible. However, this is often a recipe for disaster, as speeding not only increases our chances of getting into an accident but also makes us more likely to receive a ticket. So instead of racing down the highway, try to take things slow and steady. Follow the speed limit, and you’ll get where you’re going eventually, while not putting yourself and others in danger in the process.

Consider Listening to Soothing Music

Music has a way of calming us down and helping us relax, so if you’re feeling frazzled behind the wheel, you may consider putting on soothing music. Just be sure to keep the volume at a reasonable level so that you can still hear what’s going on around you—you don’t want your music to become a distraction in and of itself!

Count

This may sound like something from elementary school, but counting can be helpful when trying to stay calm behind the wheel. Start by taking some deep breaths and then counting slowly from 1 to 10 or higher, if you need. Focusing on something like your breath or a simple number can help take your mind off of whatever is causing you stress and anxiety and allow you to focus on the task at hand—driving safely.

Pull Over to a Safe Location

If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or panicked while driving, it may be best to pull over somewhere safe and take a break. Turn off your engine, close your eyes, and take deep breaths until you feel calmer. It may add a few minutes to your journey time, but it’s better than putting yourself and others at risk by trying to push through when you’re not in the right frame of mind.

Think Positive Thoughts

It may sound cheesy, but thinking positive thoughts can help reduce stress levels. So instead of dwelling on everything that could go wrong while driving, try thinking about something that makes you happy—perhaps an upcoming vacation or time spent with friends or family members. Focusing on positive thoughts can help take your mind off whatever is stressing you out and allow you to focus on driving safely instead. Of course, do not allow this to take your attention off the road.

St. Louis Car Accident Lawyer

Unfortunately, despite your best efforts to stay calm and focused while behind the wheel, you may still find yourself in a car accident that leaves you injured. If this happens, don’t hesitate to contact The Hoffman Law Firm for help. Our St. Louis car accident lawyers have over 20 years of experience fighting for the compensation our clients deserve, so they can focus on healing and getting back on their feet. Contact us today for a free consultation.

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Amputation Due to a Car Accident

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Approximately 185,000 amputations occur each year in the United States.

car accident amputation

An amputation is the removal of a body extremity. Amputation may occur accidentally as a result of a trauma or may have to be done surgically. Body parts that commonly suffer these types of injuries include the toes, feet, legs, fingers, hands, and arms. If a limb is severely damaged due to trauma or suffers a life-threatening infection and cannot be saved, it may have to be surgically amputated. In serious accidents, a limb may be severed or torn off. This is known as amputation by trauma.

Compensation for Amputation Injuries

If someone is responsible for a car accident that causes an amputation, the victim may be entitled to recover compensation for all the losses suffered. The victim may claim the medical expenses and pain and suffering caused by the injury and amputation, but there are several other aspects of the claim that need due consideration. The victim may also be able to recover lost wages, future medical bills, loss of earning capacity, and other expenses, such as those related to artificial limbs or prosthetics.

Compensation for Lost Wages

A victim who suffers an amputation injury may need to take time off work to recover from the injury, or the victim may lose the ability to return to work. If the victim is able to return to work, he or she may have to take a wage cut or accept a job that involves less physical activity. In any situation, the victim may need to claim lost wages and possibly, for loss of earning capacity as well.

Compensation for Medical Expenses

A person who suffers an amputation injury may incur high medical costs for a long period of time. It is important to include in the claim all expenses related to the injury, including radiology, emergency room treatment, surgery, rehabilitation, physical therapy, and prescription costs. In some cases, the victim may develop significant scarring and may need to undergo plastic surgery. The victim may also suffer serious neurological or psychological symptoms after the injury. A victim may experience depression, anxiety, or low self-esteem and require help from a counselor or psychologist. A St. Louis car accident attorney will take all these expenses into account to file a compensation claim.

Compensation for Prosthetics

In many cases of severe amputation, the victim has to use an artificial limb to restore the ability to perform daily activities. These prosthetics or assistive devices can be costly to purchase and maintain. So, including these costs in the compensation claim is essential. Amputation can completely change a person’s life. Using assistive devices and technologies or remodeling the home to allow the victim to function as normally as possible can be expensive. This money should be recovered from the party at fault. There are strict time limits for all personal injury claims, including those involving amputation injuries.

Speak with an experienced St. Louis car accident attorney as soon as possible to learn more about your legal rights after a car accident.

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Click to Call: (314) 361-4242

Vascular Trauma in an Auto Accident

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Vascular Trauma is an injury to the blood vessels that can happen as a result of trauma such as an auto accident.

Auto accident victims who hit their head or chest on the steering wheel, dashboard, or window may find themselves experiencing pain or numbness in their extremities. These may be symptoms of vascular trauma, a serious condition that can lead to disability or even death if not treated promptly.

st. louis driver with vasular trauma after a car accident

What is Vascular Trauma?

Vascular Trauma is an injury to the blood vessels that can happen as a result of trauma such as an auto accident. It can be caused by blunt force trauma (like hitting your head on the steering wheel), lacerations (cuts), or puncture wounds (from glass or debris). Symptoms of Vascular Trauma include:

  • Bruising or discoloration of the skin
  • Pain or tenderness in the affected area
  • Swelling
  • Numbness or tingling
  • A reduced sensation in the affected area
  • Decreased range of motion
  • Difficulty moving the affected limb

Diagnosis

It’s worth noting that every vascular injury is different and requires a specific diagnosis depending on the individual case. That said, a vascular specialist can easily identify vascular trauma by physical examination alone. Sometimes, however, deeper testing may be required.

For example, an angiogram may be needed to visualize the vessels and assess for damage. Additionally, Duplex ultrasonography can be used to assess blood flow and detect any blockages.

Ultimately, the goal of diagnosis is to identify the extent of the injury and develop a treatment plan accordingly. With proper diagnosis, patients can expect to make a full recovery from even the most severe vascular trauma.

Treatments for Vascular Trauma

Once the diagnosis is complete, treatment can begin. Treatment for vascular trauma will vary depending on the severity of the injury and the individual patient. There are generally three treatment options for Vascular Trauma:

  • Surgical repair is often the first course of treatment for vascular injuries. The surgeon will make an incision in the skin and then sew the damaged vessel together. In some cases, a patch may be used to repair the vessel.
  • Endovascular treatment is less invasive than surgery and can be used to treat both arterial and venous injuries. A catheter is inserted into an artery or vein and then threaded to the injury site. A balloon is then inflated at the site of the injury to stop the flow of blood.
  • Fasciotomy is a surgical procedure that is used to relieve pressure on the nerves and blood vessels. It’s usually done when there is a risk of compartment syndrome.

If you think you may be suffering from Vascular Trauma, it’s important to seek medical attention right away. Your doctor will be able to run tests to confirm the diagnosis and develop a treatment plan. With early diagnosis and treatment, most people make a full recovery from Vascular Trauma.

Regardless of how you may feel after a car accident, it is always recommended to seek medical attention to ensure prompt treatment of any injuries

St. Louis Auto Accident Attorney

Vascular Trauma can be expensive to treat after an auto accident. To ensure your legal right to compensation from the at-fault party is protected, get in touch with an experienced St. Louis auto accident attorney at The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C. 24/7 to schedule a free case evaluation.

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How Are Loose Objects Dangerous During Car Accidents?

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Depending on a loose object’s size, car accident injuries can range from minor cuts and bruises to more serious injuries like head injuries or broken bones.

Loose objects can pose a serious threat during a car accident. Depending on a loose object’s size, injuries can result from minor cuts and bruises to more serious injuries like head injuries or broken bones.

Books, phone chargers, sunglasses, and water bottles are just a few of the many items a driver may throw in their purse, backpack, or car console before leaving the house. Many people don’t think twice about it. Unfortunately, these seemingly small and innocuous items can pose a serious threat during car accidents. This article will discuss how loose objects can cause serious injuries during car accidents.

woman with loose objects in the car

They Can Become Projectiles During an Accident

One thing that many people don’t consider is that during a car accident, loose objects can be thrown around your vehicle’s cabin with a lot of force and end up hitting you or your passengers. Depending on the size and weight of the object, the injuries sustained can range from minor cuts and bruises to more serious injuries like concussions or broken bones.

They Can Obstruct Your View

Another danger that loose objects pose is that they can obstruct your view. This is especially true for items placed on the dashboard or center console. If you’re in an accident and these items fall and block your view, it can make it difficult to see what’s happening around you and could even prevent you from seeing an oncoming hazard. This obstruction of view can ultimately lead to more serious accidents.

They Can Get Lodged Under the Pedals

This may seem far-fetched, but it’s actually quite common. Smaller items like coins, water bottles, and phone chargers can easily slip under the pedals while driving. And if you’re in an accident, these items can get lodged under the pedals and prevent you from braking or accelerating properly. This could cause you to lose control of the vehicle and lead to a more serious accident.

They Can Distract You

Another danger that loose objects pose is that they can be a distraction. If you’re looking for your sunglasses or phone charger while driving, it takes your attention away from the road. And even if you’re not looking for the item, simply knowing that it’s there can be a distraction. Any type of distraction can increase your chances of being in an accident.

There are many ways that loose objects can be dangerous during car accidents. The next time you’re getting ready to head out, take a few minutes to clean your car and remove any loose items. It could end up saving your life.

St. Louis Car Accident Attorney

Now that you know how dangerous loose objects can be during car accidents, it’s important to know what to do if you’ve been injured in one. The first step is to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Then, contact an experienced St. Louis car accident attorney who can help you understand your legal options and pursue the compensation you deserve.

At the Hoffman Law Firm, we have over 20 years of experience helping accident victims seek compensation for their injuries. If you’ve been injured in a car accident, contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll review your case and help you understand your legal options.

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Speak with an experienced attorney 24/7

Click to Call: (314) 361-4242

Car Accident Face Injuries

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Facial injuries resulting from car accidents can be expensive to treat and may require long-term care.

According to recent research, motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of facial injuries in the US. In fact, nearly half of all accident-related facial injuries are the result of car crashes. This high rate of facial injuries is due, in part, to the fact that the face is one of the most exposed parts of the body during a collision. Additionally, the major blood vessels and nerves in the face are located close to the surface, making them more susceptible to damage. 

This article will discuss some of the most common facial injuries that occur in car accidents.

man with face injury after a car accident

Facial Fractures

One of the most serious types of car accident face injuries is a fracture. The force of a collision can cause bones in the face to break or shatter. The most common type of fracture is a nose fracture, which can occur when the nose is hit by a steering wheel, dashboard, or another object. A broken nose is usually fairly easy to spot, as it’ll often be swollen and misshapen. However, other types of fractures, such as those involving the cheekbones or jaw, may not be immediately apparent. Symptoms of these fractures can include pain, numbness, and difficulty moving the affected facial feature. 

Treatment: Treatment for fractures typically requires surgery and often includes placing metal plates or screws to hold the bones in place while they heal.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Accident victims can also suffer from soft tissue injuries to the face. These types of injuries occur when the muscles, tendons, or ligaments are damaged. Soft tissue injuries can range from mild strains and bruises to more severe injuries such as whiplash or torn ligaments. In some cases, soft tissue injuries can lead to long-term pain and disability. These injuries typically occur when the face comes into contact with a hard object, such as a steering wheel, dashboard, or airbag. 

Treatment: Treatment for soft tissue injuries often includes rest, ice therapy, compression, and elevation. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair damaged tissues.

Facial Contusions

Otherwise known as bruises, contusions occur when small blood vessels are damaged, causing blood to leak into the surrounding tissue. Facial contusions are common in motor vehicle accidents and can range from mild to severe, depending on the extent of the damage. Mild contusions may cause only minor swelling and bruising, while more severe contusions can lead to extensive swelling, bruising, and even broken bones. In some cases, facial contusions can also cause internal bleeding and damage to nerves or other tissues.

Treatment: Treatment for contusions typically involves ice therapy and pain medication. In severe cases, however, surgery may be necessary to repair the damaged blood vessels.

If you have sustained any type of facial injury in a car accident, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to ensure a successful outcome.

St. Louis Car Accident Lawyer

Facial injuries resulting from car accidents can be expensive to treat and may require long-term care. If you’ve been in a car accident, the experienced St. Louis car accident attorneys at The Hoffmann Law Firm are here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation.

FREE Consultation

Speak with an experienced attorney 24/7

Click to Call: (314) 361-4242

Car Accident Caused by a Driver on Perscription Medication

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Many medications, both over-the-counter and prescription, contain substances that can impair driving ability.

Prescription medications undoubtedly help many people live a more comfortable life. However, they can also have a downside, especially when it comes to driving. Many medications, both over-the-counter and prescription, contain substances that can impair driving ability. These may include opioids, sedatives, anticholinergics, and even some cold medicines. 

drowsy driver on perscription medication

Possible Side Effects of Prescription Drugs That May Impair Driving

It’s important to know that everyone reacts differently to medication, so this is not meant to be an exhaustive list of possible side effects. With that in mind, here are three possible side effects of medication that may impair driving: 

Blurred Vision

One of the most common side effects of prescription drugs is blurred vision. This can be caused by a number of different factors, including the drug itself, the dose, and the way it interacts with other medications. Blurred vision can make it difficult to read street signs, recognize faces, or even see the road in front of you. As a result, it can be extremely dangerous to drive while on certain prescription drugs. 

If you experience blurred vision while taking medication, it’s important to speak with your doctor about alternative treatment options. In some cases, simply adjusting the dose or taking the drug at a different time of day may help to improve your vision. However, if your blurred vision persists, you should avoid driving until it clears.

Dizziness

Driving requires full mental and physical alertness. Unfortunately, some prescription drugs can cause dizziness, which takes away from a driver’s ability to stay alert. Dizziness can make it difficult to concentrate, and can also cause a person to feel off-balance and unsteady. As a result, people who are taking medications that cause dizziness may be at an increased risk for car accidents. 

Impaired Cognitive Function

Another common side effect of prescription drugs is impaired cognitive function. This can manifest as difficulties with memory, decision-making, and other executive functions. For example, a motorist taking a sedative for anxiety may have trouble remembering the route they just drove. Someone on pain medication may have slowed reaction times and impaired judgment. The dangers of driving while impaired by prescription drugs are evident; even brief lapses in attention can result in serious accidents.

More side effects:

What to Do if Your Car Accident Was Caused by an Impaired Driver

If you’ve been involved in a car accident and the other driver was impaired by prescription medication, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. However, it generally isn’t as simple as filing a claim with the other driver’s insurer. You’ll need to table evidence that proves the other driver was impaired to get the compensation you deserve.

The experienced St. Louis car accident attorneys at The Hoffman Law Firm are here to help you collect strong evidence and build a convincing case. Contact us today for a free consultation.

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Click to Call: (314) 361-4242