THE MOST COMMON CAR CRASH INJURIES AND THEIR CAUSES (2023)

Car crashes are one of the most common causes of injury and death worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), road traffic accidents result in approximately 1.35 million deaths each year. While advances in technology have made cars safer, injuries can still occur, and they can be severe.

This article will explore the most common car crash injuries and their causes, including head injuries, neck injuries, back injuries, chest injuries, and psychological injuries. We will also look at ways to prevent these injuries and what to do if you are involved in a car crash.

Read More: COMMON CAUSES OF CAR ACCIDENTS (2023)

Head Injuries

Head injuries are a common result of car crashes, particularly if the occupants of the vehicle were not wearing seat belts. These injuries can range from mild concussions to more severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Symptoms of head injuries include headaches, dizziness, loss of consciousness, memory loss, and nausea.

Causes

Head injuries can occur due to several factors, including:

• Impact with the steering wheel or dashboard
• Impact with the side window or windshield
• Being hit by loose objects inside the car
• Whiplash injuries that cause the head to snap back and forth

Prevention

To prevent head injuries, always wear a seat belt when driving or riding in a car. Children should be secured in an appropriate car seat or booster seat. Avoid driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and avoid distractions such as texting while driving.

Neck Injuries

Neck injuries are also common in car crashes, particularly in rear-end collisions. These injuries can include strains, sprains, and more severe injuries such as herniated discs. Symptoms of neck injuries include pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.

Read More: AFTER A CAR ACCIDENT WHAT TO DO IF YOU EXPERIENCE BACK PAIN (2023)

Causes

Neck injuries can occur due to several factors, including:

• Sudden impact or jarring movement of the neck
• Whiplash injuries that cause the head to snap back and forth
• Impact with the steering wheel or dashboard

Prevention

To prevent neck injuries, always wear a seat belt when driving or riding in a car. Adjust the headrest so that it is at the appropriate height, and ensure that it is properly aligned with the back of your head. Avoid distractions such as texting while driving, and avoid driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Back Injuries

Back injuries can occur in car crashes, particularly in rear-end collisions. These injuries can range from mild strains to more severe injuries such as herniated discs. Symptoms of back injuries include pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.

Causes

Back injuries can occur due to several factors, including:

• Sudden impact or jarring movement of the back
• Whiplash injuries that cause the head to snap back and forth
• Impact with the steering wheel or dashboard

Prevention

To prevent back injuries, always wear a seat belt when driving or riding in a car. Adjust the seat so that it is at the appropriate angle, and ensure that the lumbar support is properly aligned with your lower back. Avoid distractions such as texting while driving, and avoid driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Chest Injuries

Chest injuries are less common in car crashes but can be severe when they occur. These injuries can include broken ribs, collapsed lungs, and cardiac arrest. Symptoms of chest injuries include pain, difficulty breathing, and coughing up blood.

Causes

Chest injuries can occur due to several factors, including:

• Impact with the steering wheel or dashboard
• Being hit by loose objects inside the car
• Whiplash injuries cause the chest to compress and expand rapidly

Prevention

To prevent chest injuries, always wear a seat belt when driving or riding in a car. Ensure that airbags deploy correctly by checking the warning light on the dashboard. Children should be secured in an appropriate car seat or booster seat. Avoid driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and avoid distractions such as texting while driving.

Psychological Injuries

Psychological injuries, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), can also occur as a result of car crashes. Symptoms of psychological injuries include anxiety, depression, nightmares, and flashbacks.

Causes

Psychological injuries can occur due to several factors, including:

• Being involved in a severe or fatal car crash
• Witnessing a severe or fatal car crash
• Feeling a lack of control or safety while driving

Prevention

To prevent psychological injuries, seek medical attention if you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression after a car crash. Consider seeking therapy or counseling to help process any trauma or emotions related to the crash.

What to Do If You Are Involved in a Car Crash

If you are involved in a car crash, take the following steps:

• Check for injuries and call 911 if necessary.
• Move to a safe location, if possible.
• Exchange information with the other driver, including name, address, phone number, insurance information, and license plate number.
• Take pictures of the damage to your car and any injuries you have sustained.
• Contact your insurance company to report the accident.

Conclusion

Car crashes can result in a variety of injuries, including head injuries, neck injuries, back injuries, chest injuries, and psychological injuries. To prevent these injuries, always wear a seat belt, secure children in appropriate car seats or booster seats, and avoid distractions such as texting while driving. If you are involved in a car crash, take steps to ensure your safety and seek medical attention if necessary.