If you have been involved in a car accident, you might incur both visible and non-visible injuries. The problem with non-visible injuries is that it is difficult to convince the court that you are actually suffering. In most cases, you will need an expert witness to testify on your behalf and strengthen your claim on non-visible injuries. Here are some of the injuries that might require that approach:

Whiplash

A whiplash injury occurs when the head and neck is suddenly forced backward and forward. For example, if your car is hit from behind, your head will be thrown backward and then forward and you may experience whiplash. Characteristic symptoms include reduced range of motion of the neck, neck instability, and excruciating neck pain. Unfortunately, no one can tell you have whiplash just by looking at you.

Herniated Disc

A herniated disc injury occurs when one of the rubbery cushions that separate the spinal disc bones is pushed out of its usual position. Any injury involving a forceful impact to the spine can cause a herniated disc. Apart from the obvious back/spinal pain, a herniated disc can cause serious complications by pushing on and damaging the nerves that run along your spine. In severe cases, the bodily functions that are controlled by those spinal nerves may be affected. Again, the judge or jury cannot know that you are suffering from a herniated disc just by looking at you.

Internal Injuries

Some accidents also cause internal physical injuries without causing any external injuries or symptoms. For example, you may suffer a ruptured spleen or bruises to internal organs without suffering any external physical injuries. You will feel the pain and your doctor may diagnose the injuries, but the non-medical professionals who will be handling your accident case won't see it.

Traumatic Brain Injury

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) refers to a range of brain injuries resulting from a violent blow or jolt to the head as well as a penetration of the brain tissues. You don't have to incur visible head damage for you to experience a TBI. A TBI can affect both your brain tissues and brain functions, and the effects can be both short-term and long-term.

Psychological Injuries

Not all injuries stemming from car accidents are physical; there are also psychological injuries that you may suffer after a car accident. For example, you can develop depression, anxiety, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after your car accident. Again, it is difficult for others to know about your psychological injuries just by looking at you.

For more information on holding up car accident injuries in court, contact a vehicular accident attorney.