Car accidents injure over a million people every year in the U.S. The extent of injuries can vary from minor to severe, with thousands even proving to be fatal.
The sources of these injuries are numerous. However, injuries often occur due to the driver’s body hitting the steering wheel if the airbag malfunctions or it’s an older vehicle without airbags. What are some of the most common injuries caused by steering wheels?
Internal organ injuries
The steering wheel generally sits about chest height for most drivers. During a crash, the driver may be thrown forward (even when wearing a seatbelt) and the steering wheel is the first point of contact.
What this means is that a tremendous amount of pressure can be put on the chest. While the chest offers protection to the internal organs, it is not designed to be put under the immense pressure in a collision. Injuries to the chest can result in internal bleeding, which is a medical emergency and can be fatal.
Wrist fractures
Steering wheels can also fracture the wrists. If a driver sees an accident coming, their instinct is typically to brace for impact by gripping the steering wheel as tightly as possible. While this can help prevent certain injuries, such as head injuries, it puts pressure on the wrists. When holding onto the steering wheel tightly, the force of the impact can travel straight through the wrists, causing them to fracture.
If you have been injured by another driver’s negligence, there are potential routes to compensation. Seeking legal guidance will give you a better idea of where you stand.