Being involved in a car accident is a traumatic experience. The experience can be overwhelming, especially if the accident led to serious injuries or even fatalities. Although a lot of confusion follows a car accident, the steps you take immediately after could determine how you live for the rest of your life. Therefore, having some knowledge of what to do in the event of an accident is important.
Common Injuries
The injuries that an individual involved in an accident sustains depend on the severity of the accident. However, common injuries include whiplash, blockages of the airways, head injuries, chest injuries, and spinal injuries.
There may be bruises on the abdomen, chest, and neck due to the impact of the seatbelt. One can also experience pain on the face, neck, back, knee, hip, and thigh depending on the nature of the accident.
What to Do After the Accident
When you get an injury from a car accident, time is crucial. First, be calm and call for help from passersby. If you can reach your phone, call your local emergency number and tell them what has happened and where you are. These professionals will do their best to reach you within the shortest possible time.
Next, check yourself by trying to move your head or limbs. If you experience difficulty, do not force any part of your body to move. A bone may be broken or dislocated, and forcing it to move could cause more injury.
Also, note some symptoms such as dizziness that could be a result of a head injury. If you notice an open wound, apply pressure on it using your palms. This will ensure you do not bleed too much before rescuers get to you. If you can get out of the road to a safe place, do so because other vehicles could still be speeding past.
Safety Tips
Since accidents can be the result of many factors including you, it will be of great benefit to follow these safety tips:
- Always wear your seatbelt. These belts help keep you in place in the event of a sudden change in the direction of movement. Seat belts also keep the wearer on the seat in the event of a collision.
- Avoid speeding or driving while fatigued.
- Do not text and drive. If you need to text, pull over; once you are through, go back to the road and pay full attention to your driving.
- Do not drink and drive. Alcohol impairs your judgment. This also applies to other drugs.
- Drive a safe vehicle. Ensure that your car is in good condition. This will ensure your brakes are in good condition and your airbags will not fail in the event of an emergency.
Go for Checkups
If after the accident you appear to be fine with no broken bones or open cuts, visit your doctor for a health checkup. Also, make sure to visit a chiropractor to check if all your muscles and joints are working properly. These professionals will help protect you from future complications resulting from untreated injuries following a car accident.
For more on what to do when injured in a car accident, visit Ocean Chiropractic and Health Center at our offices in Fort Pierce, Vero Beach, or Port St Lucie, Florida. You can also call 772-460-9000, 772-569-3000, or 772-249-0779 today to schedule an appointment.