Types of Injuries a DUI Accident Victim May Sustain 

DUI accidents are more dangerous than any other road accidents because impaired drivers cannot think clearly, react quickly, or control their vehicles properly. This lack of control often leads to high-impact collisions that leave victims with serious and sometimes life-changing injuries. 

When we look at the common injuries sustained in DUI accidents, it becomes clear how much harm an impaired driver can cause. These injuries range from mild bruises to life-threatening trauma, and many victims need long-term medical care, therapy, or even surgery to recover. 

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at those common injuries victims often sustain in DUI accidents.

Head and Brain Injuries 

Head and brain injuries are some of the most serious consequences of a DUI crash because the head is easily thrown forward or sideways during impact. A person may hit the steering wheel, dashboard, window, or even the airbag with great force. 

Common head and brain injuries include: 

1. Concussions—These are mild brain injuries that cause headaches, dizziness, confusion, and sometimes memory problems. 
2. Skull fractures—These fractures can allow pressure or swelling to build up, which is very dangerous. 
3. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)—Severe head injuries that can impact how a person thinks, speaks, remembers things, controls emotions, and performs everyday brain functions. 

Head injuries can take months or even years to heal, and some may cause permanent brain damage. This is why immediate medical attention is important after a DUI accident, even if the victim feels “fine” at first. 

Neck and Spine Injuries 

The neck and spine are very sensitive, and in a DUI accident, the body often moves suddenly and violently. This sudden movement puts a lot of pressure on the spinal cord. 

Victims may experience: 

1. Whiplash—A painful neck injury caused by fast back-and-forth movement. 
2. Herniated or slipped discs—When the discs between the spinal bones get damaged, causing severe pain, numbness, or weakness. 
3. Spinal cord injuries—Some of the most serious injuries that can result in partial or complete paralysis. 

Neck and spine injuries often require long-term therapy, rest, medications, or even surgery. In severe cases, victims may never fully recover mobility. 

Internal Injuries 

Internal injuries are some of the most dangerous problems a victim can suffer in a DUI accident because they are hidden and not always felt right away. The force of the crash impacts the body so hard that it damages organs on the inside. 

These injuries may affect organs such as 

1. Liver—which can tear or bleed due to blunt force. 
2. Kidneys—which can be damaged by impact to the lower back. 
3. Spleen—one of the most commonly injured organs in accidents. 
4. Lungs—which can be bruised or collapse. 
5. Intestines and stomach area—which can be damaged by seat belts or sharp pressure 

Internal bleeding is especially dangerous because it may not show signs immediately. A victim might feel “okay” at first but then suddenly experience dizziness, weakness, or severe pain. Without quick treatment, internal injuries can become life-threatening. These injuries usually require emergency care, scans, and sometimes surgery to stop the bleeding and repair the organs. 

Broken Bones and Fractures 

DUI crashes involve a strong impact, which often leads to broken bones. Victims may suffer fractures in the arms and legs, wrists and ankles, ribs, hips, face, and jaw. Some fractures are simple and heal with casting, while others are complex and require surgery, metal plates, screws, or long periods of rehabilitation. Severe fractures can affect a victim’s ability to walk, work, or perform daily activities. 

Cuts, Burns, and Lacerations 

Broken glass, twisted metal, and deployed airbags can cause cuts and deep wounds. In severe DUI crashes, fires or fuel leaks may lead to burns. These injuries can result in scarring, infection, permanent skin damage, and multiple surgeries for severe burns. Even small wounds can become serious if not treated properly. 

Emotional and Psychological Trauma 

A DUI accident not only harms the body. Many victims experience emotional trauma long after the crash. Common emotional effects include anxiety, depression, nightmares, fear of driving, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Mental health support, such as counseling or therapy, often plays an important role in full recovery. 

Key Takeaways 

• DUI accidents often lead to serious, life-changing injuries. 
• Head and brain injuries are common and can cause long-term damage. 
• Neck and spine injuries may result in lasting pain or paralysis. 
• Internal injuries are dangerous because they’re hidden and life-threatening. 
• DUI crashes also cause emotional trauma, like anxiety and PTSD.