Auto accidents
Common Injuries After a Car Accident
A simple guide to the symptoms that can follow a collision and why a complete assessment matters.

Every collision is different. The direction of impact, speed, seatbelt use, airbag deployment, body position, and previous injuries can all influence what a person feels afterward. Some symptoms are immediate; others can take time to become noticeable.
Symptoms can involve more than the neck
People may notice stiffness, reduced range of motion, back discomfort, headaches, shoulder pain, or soreness in the hips and knees. These symptoms are not a diagnosis on their own, but they are useful reasons to check in with a health professional.
Whiplash is a pattern, not a one-size-fits-all experience
Rapid movement of the head and neck can irritate muscles and other soft tissues. Symptoms may include neck pain, stiffness, headache, or trouble turning the head. A clinician can determine what kind of care and monitoring is appropriate.
Choose the right level of care
Call 911 for serious symptoms or a potentially life-threatening injury. For less urgent musculoskeletal concerns, a timely clinical evaluation can help document symptoms, guide activity, and coordinate care or referral as needed.
Make it personal.
Your symptoms, health history, and goals deserve their own conversation.
Explore our care