The severity of a car accident and its resulting injuries can depend on a lot of factors. Vehicle speed, point of impact and whether occupants are wearing seatbelts – these and other factors can all play a critical role. But there’s a lesser-known concern that you should be aware of: items within the cabin of your vehicle. If you’re not aware of the danger these items pose, then you could unknowingly put yourself at an increased risk of serious injury or death if you’re hurt in a wreck.
When you’re driving 55 miles per hour, everything in your car is moving at that same rate of speed. When your car suddenly slows down or stops, such as when you strike or are struck by another vehicle, unrestrained items in your car will continue to travel forward at approximately 55 miles per hour until they hit something, whether that be a seat back, the windshield or your body.
As a result, items like laptops, cell phones and metal water bottles can cause injury in a car accident. Just about any item in your vehicle that ends up hitting you can lead to serious injuries, including those that affect your head and spine. This can result in further pain, suffering and limited mobility, as well as the need for even more extensive ongoing care.
Stay safe and advocate for your recovery
Moving forward, you should be sure to secure all items in the cabin of your vehicle, which may mean putting some of them in the trunk. But if you still wind up injured in an accident caused by the negligence of another, then you need to act to protect your interests, your recovery and your future.