Every year in the United States, more than 2 million people are injured due to automobile accidents, including more than 30,000 fatal injuries. In Fulton County alone, there more than 50,000 motor vehicle accidents annually. It is estimated that more than 17,000 people are injured in the Atlanta area annually. Because of the dynamics involved, with heavy vehicles moving at 30 mph or more, a multitude of injuries can or do occur. Whiplash is the most common type of modern automobile injury. Whiplash is caused by continued movement of the head and neck during a collision. The body, if restrained by seat belts, will not move or stop with the movement of the seat. The unrestrained neck and head, however, will continue moving, causing stretching of the muscles and ligaments of the cervical spinal system. The cervical spine itself may be shifted causing a disc to bulge or herniate. Concussions are another common type of serious injury in auto accidents. If the head is in motion and is forced against any part of the vehicle, it can cause brain movement inside the skull. This will often cause a bruising of the brain, or a concussion. Concussions are particularly common in side impact collisions. Broken bones can occur in most types of accidents. If a person is slammed against a door, for instance, breakage of any of the arm bones or clavicle can occur. In more serious collisions, portions of the automobile may be forced against the body, causing broken bones, among other things. Severe bleeding, whether external or internal, is common in serious auto accidents. Broken glass, sharp metal and plastic parts can penetrate the body and cause hemorrhaging. Even without external bleeding, collisions causing broken bones can rupture blood vessels, causing internal bleeding. Many injuries, including whiplash, concussion and internal bleeding, are not readily apparent at the scene of the collision, and may go undetected without prompt medical attention. It is wise to seek medical assistance at the first instance. If you are injured in the Fulton County area due to a motor vehicle collision, consulting a qualified Atlanta personal injury attorney is a necessary step towards recovery.