When vehicles collide, the impact can cause severe damage not only to the cars involved but also to the individuals inside. One of the most concerning types of injuries that can occur as a result of a car accident is crush injuries.
These injuries happen when a part of the body catches between two objects or when a heavy object falls onto a person. In the context of car accidents, crush injuries are often caused by the force of the collision compressing the body against a hard surface or object.
Source of the injury
In a car collision, the sudden change in velocity can shove occupants forward, causing them to hit the interior of the vehicle. This impact can lead to the crushing of body parts between the seatbelt, dashboard, steering wheel or other parts of the car’s interior. Additionally, loose objects within the vehicle can become projectiles during a collision, increasing the risk of crush injuries if they strike occupants.
Common issues
Crush injuries in car collisions can affect various parts of the body, including the chest, abdomen, pelvis and extremities. Chest injuries may result from the steering wheel or dashboard compressing the chest wall, potentially causing rib fractures or damage to the heart and lungs. Abdominal injuries can occur when the abdomen presses hard against the steering wheel or other hard surfaces, leading to organ damage or internal bleeding.
Understanding how these injuries occur can help reduce the risk of serious harm. In the event of a car collision, prompt medical assessment is important for individuals with crush injuries to get the best possible outcome.
