Jacksonville is one of the fastest-growing cities in Florida, and more people means more traffic. This means that accidents are more likely to happen. Whether it’s a fender bender on Blanding Blvd or a serious crash on I-295, auto accidents are a daily reality on our roadways and its best to always be prepared for them. At our office, we regularly see the same types of injuries resulting from car accidents. Regardless of the injury or even if you don’t feel pain, it is best to seek medical attention immediately. The faster you seek medical attention, the less likely these injuries will worsen or become chronic.  Understanding these common injuries can help victims know what to look for and when to seek help. In this article we will discuss the most common Auto Injuries in Jacksonville, Florida, what to do if you have been in a car accident and what treatments are available

Whiplash and Neck Injuries

Rear-end collisions are among the most frequent types of accidents in Jacksonville, and whiplash is the most common result. Whiplash occurs when the head is suddenly thrown forward and back; this causes a strain to the neck's soft tissues. Symptoms of whiplash can appear immediately after the accident. However, in some cases it can take up 72 hours for some people to feel them.

While whiplash is sometimes dismissed as a “minor” injury, it can lead to long-term discomfort if not treated properly. This is why it is important to seek medical attention immediately after the accident. While whiplash can start as a minor issue, it can quickly worsen or become more chronic if not treated correctly.

Common symptoms include:

• Neck stiffness and pain
• Headaches, often radiating from the neck
• Dizziness or fatigue
• Limited range of motion in the neck

If you experience any of these symptoms after a rear-end collision, do not ignore them. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve your recovery time and reduce the risk of long-term complications. Your doctor will be able to diagnose your injuries and determine the best course of action.

Back and Spinal Injuries

Back injuries can range from minor strains to serious damage involving the spine. Accidents on high-speed roads like I-95 often result in more severe trauma. Rear end collisions can lead to your spine twisting or compressing. This can lead to back pain numbness, tingling and reduced mobility.  Here are some of the most common types of back and spinal injuries we frequently see in Jacksonville, Fl:

• Herniated or slipped discs
• Compression fractures
• Chronic lower back pain
• Nerve damage, including sciatica
• Muscle strains and ligament sprains
• Degenerative disc disease aggravated by trauma
• Bulging discs
• Post-traumatic arthritis in spinal joints

These conditions can interfere with daily life and affect a person’s ability to work. It can also lead to difficulty maintaining relationships and engaging in social activities. This can lead to persistent stress and emotional distress that can make even basic tasks feel overwhelming. The impact can intensify over time if the proper treatment isn’t sought out. 

Head Injuries and Concussions

Not all head injuries involve a visible wound. In fact, concussions and other brain injuries can occur even without a direct blow to the head. The simple jolting of the brain inside the skull during impact can disrupt normal neurological function. Here are the signs you should watch out for after a collision:

• Confusion or trouble focusing
• Headaches that don’t go away
• Nausea or vomiting
• Sensitivity to light and noise
• Sleep disturbances or mood changes

If left untreated, brain injuries can lead to long-term cognitive, emotional and physical impairments. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing long-term cognitive effects. The sooner you seek medical attention, the swifter your recovery. 

Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue damage often goes undetected initially but can cause significant discomfort in the days following an accident. Brusing, swelling, and stiffness can develop gradually, which leads to people dismissing them as minor injuries. Soft tissue injuries are often the result of stretching or blunt force due to the impact of the accident. Examples of soft tissue injuries include:

• Muscle strains and sprains
• Torn ligaments
• Deep tissue bruising
• Joint inflammation
• Contusions (deep bruises) to muscles and connective tissues
• Swelling and inflammation that restrict joint movement
• Tendon Damage

Even without broken bones, these injuries can limit movement and take weeks to heal. Daily tasks like driving, lifting or seating for long periods can become painful and difficult. Persistent discomfort from soft tissue injuries can also interfere with sleep and one’s quality of life. 

What to Do After an Auto Accident in Jacksonville

Knowing what to do in the moments and days following a crash is crucial for a quick and speedy recovery. If you’ve been in a car accident, seek immediate medical care, even if your injuries seem minor, or you don’t feel any pain or symptoms. As we’ve discussed previously, injuries may take time to manifest themselves and can worsen over time if not treated. Other steps to take include, documenting, seeking legal help and filing an insurance claim. Documenting the accident thoroughly with photos, medical records, and a police report to support any future claims can result in you getting a bigger compensation. Next file your insurance claim and contact the police to file a police report; this can be used as evidence when seeking compensation. Since Florida is a no-fault state, you are eligible for Personal Injury Protection (PIP), which can help cover your medical expenses and lost wages; this means you will be covered regardless of who is at fault. If you have questions about insurance or injury claims, contacting a legal or medical professional can help you understand your options. The sooner you act, the better the outcome will be both physically and financially. 

Treatments Available for Auto Accident Injuries

Recovering from an auto accident requires a comprehensive treatment program that addresses all your injuries and is tailored to your specific needs. Depending on your injuries, your treatment can range from routine physical therapy all the way to surgical interventions. Chiropractic care and physical therapy are effective for conditions like whiplash, soft tissue injuries, and back pain. These treatments help improve mobility, reduce inflammation, and accelerate healing. You may also go through a rehab program. These programs help strengthen your muscles and manage pain with spinal adjustments, stretching exercises, massage therapy, and electrical stimulation or ultrasound therapy; these can also be supplemented by pain medications and injections. If you suffered more severe injuries such as broken bones, ligament tears, or spinal trauma, surgery may be required. Some of the most common surgeries for auto injuries include fracture repair, spinal decompression or fusion, and arthroscopic surgery. For concussions or brain injuries, neurological and cognitive treatment is essential and may involve cognitive rest, neurocognitive testing, medications for symptoms like headaches or mood changes, and therapies for vision or balance, with ongoing monitoring to support long-term brain health and prevent complications. The more comprehensive the treatment plan, the better the outcome.

Visit North Florida Medical Center Today!

If you’ve recently been involved in a car accident, visit North Florida Medical Center today. Our dedicated team of board-certified physicians, pain management specialists, chiropractors, physical therapists, and nurse practitioners are experienced in diagnosing and treating a wide range of accident-related injuries, from whiplash and soft tissue damage to chronic pain and mobility issues. We understand how overwhelming recovery can be, which is why we offer comprehensive, personalized treatment plans designed to speed your healing and restore your quality of life. With multiple convenient locations throughout Jacksonville and Orange Park, same-day appointments, and a walk-in care center, we’re committed to providing timely access to care when it matters most. Whether you need pain management, physical therapy, or chiropractic adjustments, North Florida Medical Center is your trusted partner in recovery. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward healing after your car accident.