Getting struck by a vehicle is one of the most terrifying experiences no one should ever have to endure. Traumatic injuries can develop as a result of being hit by a moving vehicle, from those affecting the body temporarily, to wounds so disruptive that they change the victim’s life forever. Should you ever be faced with a situation in which you may be struck by a vehicle, you need to know what to do to part from the location safely. Here are several important safety tips to keep in mind if you are ever hit by a car.
What Happens to Your Body During a Vehicle Collision
When an object (or person) is placed in the path of the moving vehicle, the kinetic energy stored in the vehicle is immediately transferred into the body of the victim. Your body is not built to absorb this much energy, especially so abruptly, so consequentially, you are left with severe injuries.
Depending on the type and direction of impact, you can expect the following injuries:
- Broken collar bone
- Broken ribs
- Injured lungs
Punctured lungs and a damaged chest cavity typically occur as a result of high-speed crashes, where the ribs were broken and consequentially penetrated the lungs. Even seatbelt misuse can lead to severe injuries: Wearing the belt over your stomach can lead to severe damage to internal organs. Knowing what to expect will help you to better protect yourself as a preventative safety measure. Still, you can’t control other drivers, so you must know what to do if you are ever placed into this situation.
What to Do if You’ve Been Hit
If you have been hit by a vehicle as a pedestrian, driver, or passenger, you must seek medical attention immediately. Follow the guidelines below to get yourself to safety and document the incident:
- Get immediate medical assistance.
- Contact the police.
- Never discuss fault at the scene of the collision.
- Contact your insurer.
- Get a lawyer.
You must understand that you may be dazed or even unconscious after being hit by a car, so please exercise patience with yourself if you are not able to complete these steps in succession. Medical attention is a non-negotiable in this scenario. Ensure that all your injuries are attended to by asking the following questions:
- Are there specific areas on your body that are experiencing pain?
- Are there any visible injuries?
- Is there blood on your head, face, or extremities?
Remember that not all your injuries will be immediately apparent. As you check over your body, document all pains and discomforts and relay this to your physician. These details must also be included in your police report and your telling of the events to your insurer. Once you are in a position to do so, contact a personal injury attorney. They will ensure that the liable party is held responsible for your injuries and damages, and fight for you to receive the compensation you need for a full recovery.