Automobile accidents are a part of modern life, and can happen anytime, anywhere, and to anyone. Fortunately many car accidents are minor, with more damage done to the vehicle than to any of the passengers. But anyone out on the road is at risk.

Injuries from auto accidents are most commonly found in the neck and back. The most frequently seen injury is whiplash, which occurs when a car is rammed from behind, forcing the head to be suddenly, sometimes violently thrown forward and then backward. Even in accidents involving speeds as low as 15 mph, fragile tendons and muscles in the neck can be damaged when the neck hyperextends. Whiplash produces various symptoms, including swelling, neck pain, soreness in the back of the neck, muscle spasms along the sides or back of the neck, head and neck stiffness, headaches, and pain that runs from the neck to the arms. Other neck injuries that cause similar symptoms include sprains, strains, and fractures. Victims of car accidents may also experience back pain; ongoing feelings of pain and soreness may indicate the injury is more serious.

Legs, knees, hands, arms, and heads are also susceptible to injuries as they may come into contact with hard surfaces during the collision. A concussion is also common in collisions where the head strikes a hard object and victims need to be closely monitored if this is the case. Concussions can get worse over time, and a doctor can instruct you on signs to look for. Any body part can get bruised or cut.

It is always important to seek medical care after a car accident if you feel pain or stiffness, even if it doesn't appear right away. You may be in shock or get a rush of adrenaline right after the accident and not realize you have an injury. Imaging tests like x-rays can show if there are any fractures, but more expensive tests like an MRI or CT scan will be needed to show soft tissue damage.

Sometimes in the case of a mild injury, the victim is advised to do nothing but rest. If you need some help to calm down and rest so that your injuries can heal, a doctor can prescribe muscle relaxants and painkillers. More serious injuries may require physical therapy in order for the victim to regain strength and movement, but only after the victim has had a good rest. Damaged muscles and tendons take time to heal properly, and victims should follow their doctor's recommendations closely.