Most Common Car Accident Injuries in New Jersey — What You Need to Know
A busy highway with multiple lanes of fast-moving cars and trucks under a dawn sky.
New Jersey drivers face daily risks on heavily trafficked roads like the Turnpike, Garden State Parkway, and I-78. Accidents here can cause a range of injuries, from mild whiplash to life-altering trauma. In this post, we’ll break down the most common car accident injuries in New Jersey, how they affect your health and finances, and what steps you should take to protect yourself medically and legally.
1. Neck and Spine Injuries (Whiplash)
Often caused by rear-end collisions, whiplash involves soft tissue damage in the neck and upper spine.
A photo of a woman wearing a neck brace due to whiplash injury.
Symptoms: Neck pain, stiffness, shoulder pain, headaches, dizziness.
Why it matters: If untreated, it can develop into chronic pain or limited mobility.
➡ Tip: Always get a medical evaluation—even if you feel “fine” right after the accident.
2. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
A blow or jolt to the head can cause a concussion or more serious brain trauma.
Cropped shot of a doctor’s hands holding a brain MRI scan from a computer tomography.
Symptoms: Confusion, nausea, memory loss, blurred vision, difficulty concentrating.
Why it matters: Even mild brain injuries can lead to long-term cognitive or emotional issues.
➡ Tip: Request imaging (like CT or MRI) if you hit your head—even lightly.
3. Broken Bones and Joint Injuries
High-impact crashes often cause fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, or hips.
A doctor’s hands holding an X-ray film and examining it closely.
Symptoms: Swelling, bruising, severe pain, difficulty moving.
Why it matters: Complex fractures may need surgery and months of rehab.
➡ Tip: Keep detailed medical records and all bills. These are crucial for insurance and legal claims.
4. Internal Injuries and Bleeding
Seatbelts and impact can cause internal organ damage or bleeding not visible externally.
A detailed illustration depicting damaged internal organs from a car accident, combined with a cracked heart.
Symptoms: Abdominal pain, fainting, low blood pressure, deep bruising.
Why it matters: Left untreated, internal injuries can be fatal.
➡ Tip: Don’t refuse the ambulance or ER check-up after a serious crash.
5. Psychological Trauma (PTSD)
Emotional trauma after a crash can cause long-lasting mental health issues.
A woman in the driver’s seat resting her head on the steering wheel with her head bowed.
Symptoms: Flashbacks, anxiety, insomnia, fear of driving.
Why it matters: PTSD is real and compensable under New Jersey law.
➡ Tip: Mental health care is as important as physical treatment. Document it.
What You Should Do After a Car Accident in New Jersey
Seek medical attention immediately, even if symptoms are minor.
Document every symptom, medical visit, and diagnosis.
Contact a New Jersey personal injury attorney to understand your rights under the state’s no-fault and liability laws.
File your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) claim as soon as possible.
A scene of consulting with a lawyer due to a car accident.
Even a “minor” accident can lead to major health issues. Recognizing and treating your injuries promptly — and taking the right legal steps — can protect both your recovery and your financial future. If you've been in a crash in New Jersey, don't delay: get medical help, document everything, and consult an attorney.
© 2025 [Blessen Abraham]. All rights reserved.