Car crashes can injure almost every part of the body. While many people think of whiplash or head trauma, the feet often take a heavy impact during collisions. When a driver braces for a crash or the vehicle floor buckles, serious damage can occur to the bones, joints, and soft tissues.
Those living with a car accident foot injury frequently discover that their condition is more complex than it first appears. Understanding the most common types of trauma can help you recognize symptoms, seek prompt treatment, and protect your right to fair compensation.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed after an accident, we’re here to help. Contact us online for a free consultation or call our hotline at (419) 455-1410 today.
Common Types of Car Accident Foot Injuries
The human foot includes dozens of bones and connective tissues that allow stability and movement. Because of this intricate structure, even moderate force can lead to lasting impairment. Below are seven typical foot injuries from car accident cases seen in Ohio.
1. Fractures and Broken Bones
Fractures are among the most frequent injuries sustained in a collision. Crushing forces, bracing against pedals, or metal intrusion can break bones in multiple places. Toe, midfoot, and heel fractures often occur when the front of the vehicle collapses inward.
Lower extremity injuries make up a significant amount of all moderate-to-severe car crash injuries, studies show. Recovery can take months and often requires immobilization or surgery to restore normal function.
2. Sprains and Strains
Sudden twisting or impact can overstretch ligaments and tendons. These injuries cause swelling, bruising, and sharp pain around the ankle or top of the foot. Ankle pain after a car accident may signal a torn ligament that needs professional care.
Even when walking is possible, stiffness or discoloration may indicate internal soft tissue trauma. Prompt evaluation helps prevent long-term instability or chronic discomfort.
3. Lisfranc (Midfoot) Injuries
A Lisfranc injury affects the bones and ligaments in the midfoot region. Damage occurs when force drives the foot downward or twists it during impact. Because these injuries can appear similar to sprains, early imaging is vital.
Common signs include severe swelling, bruising on both sides of the foot, and pain when bearing weight. Without treatment, patients risk arthritis or permanent deformity.
4. Heel (Calcaneal) Injuries
The heel bone, known as the calcaneus, can shatter when crushed against the vehicle floor. These fractures are serious because they disrupt the foot’s entire weight-bearing system. Recovery may involve surgery, physical therapy, and extended time off work.
Even minor heel damage can lead to lasting stiffness, difficulty walking, or the need for custom footwear.
5. Tendon and Ligament Damage
Tendons and ligaments anchor muscles to bones and allow the foot to move smoothly. The Achilles tendon is particularly vulnerable in high-impact collisions. A rupture or tear may occur when the foot jerks forward suddenly.
Treatment often includes immobilization or surgical repair followed by physical therapy. Untreated injuries can cause weakness, instability, or chronic pain that limits mobility.
6. Nerve Damage and Compartment Syndrome
Intense swelling or internal bleeding can compress nerves and restrict blood flow. These conditions can lead to car accident foot injury complications such as numbness, burning pain, or tingling sensations.
In severe cases, compartment syndrome can develop, cutting off circulation and threatening permanent nerve loss. Immediate medical attention is critical for this type of injury.
7. Soft Tissue Contusions and Bruising
Not all trauma involves fractures. Even a low-speed crash can cause deep tissue bruising and inflammation. Persistent foot injuries from a car accident may appear minor but still interfere with walking or standing for long periods.
If you experience foot or ankle pain after a car accident, seek diagnostic imaging to rule out fractures or torn ligaments. Early treatment helps prevent complications that could delay recovery.
What to Do If You Suspect a Car Accident Foot Injury
Anyone feeling pain, swelling, or loss of motion after a crash should visit a medical professional immediately. Some injuries take time to appear, and waiting can worsen the damage.
Document every part of your medical care. Keep X-rays, prescriptions, and therapy notes to support your legal claim.
According to the Ohio Department of Public Safety, there were close to 61,000 injury crashes statewide in 2023. Many of those collisions involved lower limb injuries similar to these.
How Bensinger Legal Services Helps Ohio Injury Victims
At Bensinger Legal Services, we help people across Lima, Findlay, Kenton, Van Wert, and Northwest Ohio recover compensation for serious foot and ankle trauma. Aaron Bensinger’s experience in both Ohio and California courts gives him a unique perspective on complex cases.
Attorney Aaron Bensinger and his team handle every claim with care, determination, and attention to detail. They negotiate aggressively with insurers and are always prepared to take a case to trial when fairness demands it.
Let us handle the legal fight while you focus on getting back on your feet. Contact Bensinger Legal Services today to discuss your car accident foot injury and learn how we can help you move forward with confidence.
Aaron L. Bensinger is an Ohio attorney serving personal injury and civil litigation clients. He has extensive trial experience and makes client service is his primary focus. As a partner at Balyeat, Leahy, Daley, Miller & Bensinger, LLC, Aaron happily works in Lima, OH, and serves the entire Northwest region of the state and beyond.
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