Nevada’s scenic highways and bustling city streets offer a plethora of opportunities for residents and visitors to explore. However, along with the beauty of this state, there comes a risk that can change lives in the blink of an eye. Car accidents happen, and sometimes, the result can be hitting your head on the steering wheel, leading to serious head injuries, including traumatic brain injuries.
In this article, we will discuss the implications of hitting your head on the steering wheel during a car accident in Nevada, and what you should do if you or a loved one has experienced such an unfortunate event.
Understanding the Severity of Head Injuries in Car Accidents
Car accidents can range from minor fender benders to high-speed collisions. No matter the severity of the accident, one common factor remains constant: the potential for head injuries. When a head collides with the steering wheel, it can lead to a range of head injuries, from mild concussions to serious brain injuries.
What to Do After Hitting Your Head on the Steering Wheel?
If you or a loved one has experienced a head injury from hitting the steering wheel in a motor vehicle accident, it is essential to take immediate action. Here are the steps to follow:
Seek Immediate Medical Care:
Your health should be your top priority. Even if you do not experience immediate symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention to rule out any hidden injuries. Some head injuries may not show symptoms until later, and early intervention is crucial.
Document the Accident:
If you are physically able, try to document the accident scene. This includes taking pictures of the vehicles involved, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Eyewitness statements and police reports are also valuable.
Consult a Medical Professional:
Follow the advice of your healthcare provider, as they will be best equipped to determine the extent of your injuries and recommend the necessary medical treatment.
Consult a Legal Professional:
If you have sustained head injuries due to a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, severe pain and suffering, and more. Seeking legal advice from a Nevada-based law firm that specializes in personal injury cases is a crucial step in understanding your rights and pursuing a personal injury claim.
Communicate with Insurance Companies:
Contact your insurance company and provide them with all the necessary information about the accident. However, be cautious when dealing with insurance adjusters, as they may try to minimize your claim.
Collect Evidence:
Preserve all evidence related to your accident, including medical records, property damage estimates, and any other documentation that can support your claim.
What Causes Head Injuries?
Steering wheel injuries typically occur in motor vehicle accidents when a driver or passenger’s head collides with the steering wheel. These injuries can be caused by various factors and conditions associated with the accident, including:
Sudden Deceleration: When a vehicle abruptly comes to a stop, either due to a collision or emergency braking, the occupants inside the vehicle continue to move forward due to inertia. This can lead to the head striking the steering wheel or other hard surfaces within the vehicle’s interior.
Lack of Seatbelt Use: Not wearing a seatbelt significantly increases the risk of injury in a car accident. In the absence of seatbelt restraint, the driver or passenger’s body can be propelled forward upon impact, increasing the likelihood of hitting the steering wheel.
High-Speed Collisions: Collisions that occur at high speeds generate more force, making it more likely for the head to hit the steering wheel with greater impact. High-speed accidents can lead to more severe injuries.
Airbag Deployment: While airbags are designed to mitigate the impact of a collision, they can also cause injuries. In some cases, the force of the deploying airbag, combined with the head’s forward momentum, can result in head injuries.
Driver’s Position: The position of the driver at the time of the accident can also play a role. Drivers who are sitting too close to the steering wheel or are not properly adjusted in their seats may be more susceptible to steering wheel injuries.
Distracted or Impaired Driving: Distracted or impaired drivers are more likely to be involved in accidents, increasing the chances of hitting their heads on the steering wheel.
Weather and Road Conditions: Adverse weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or ice, can reduce traction and increase the likelihood of accidents. Poor road conditions, like potholes or uneven surfaces, can also contribute to accidents and subsequent injuries.
Reckless or Negligent Driving: Reckless behaviors like speeding, running red lights, and aggressive driving can lead to collisions, and the resulting forces can cause steering wheel injuries.
Common Head Injuries in Car Accidents
Traumatic Brain Injuries:
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are a major concern when the head strikes the steering wheel during a car accident. Traumatic brain injury can lead to a range of symptoms and complications, from concussions to severe brain contusions.
Closed Head Injuries:
In many cases, the impact of the skull hitting the steering wheel can result in closed head injuries, where there is no visible external damage to the head. Closed head injuries are often more challenging to diagnose and may not present immediate symptoms.
Skull Fractures:
In severe accidents, the force of impact can lead to skull fractures, which are not only painful but can also pose life-threatening risks.
Concussions:
Concussions are the most common type of head and brain injury in car accidents. Symptoms can vary from blurred vision, slurred speech, personality changes, and even loss of consciousness.
How to Prevent Steering Wheel Injuries?
Preventing steering wheel injuries primarily involves taking steps to reduce the risk of steering wheel injury in car accidents and ensuring that you and your passengers are properly secured within the vehicle. Here are some key measures to prevent steering wheel injuries:
Use Seatbelt: Always wear your seatbelt and ensure all passengers do the same.
Proper Seating Position: Adjust your seat and steering wheel to maintain a safe driving posture with at least 10 inches between your chest and the steering wheel.
Child Safety: Use appropriate child safety seats and follow installation guidelines.
Traffic Law Compliance: Adhere to speed limits and traffic rules and avoid aggressive driving behaviors.
Distracted Driving: Avoid distractions like phone use, eating, and other activities while driving.
Sober Driving: Never drive under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or impairing substances.
Vehicle Maintenance: Regularly service your vehicle, including brakes and steering components.
Weather Adaptation: Adjust your driving in adverse weather conditions by reducing speed and increasing the following distance.
The Legal Aspect: Seeking Compensation
Car accidents that result in head and brain injuries caused by hitting the steering wheel can have a significant impact on your life. Medical expenses, lost wages, and non-monetary losses can take a toll. If the accident was caused by another driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. Consulting with a Nevada-based law firm that specializes in personal injury cases is the best way to navigate this complex legal process.
Get Help from a Skilled Car Accident Attorney at BLG
Car accidents can lead to life-altering consequences, particularly when they involve head injuries from hitting the steering wheel. It’s crucial to prioritize your health and well-being by seeking immediate medical care and consulting with medical and legal professionals. A skilled attorney can help you understand your rights, pursue a personal injury claim, and work towards the compensation you deserve. In times of hardship, having the right support can make all the difference. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey.
Ready to take the first step towards the compensation you deserve? Contact our experienced car accident attorneys at BLG today. We’re here to guide you through the legal process and fight for your rights.
Don’t wait – get in touch now for a free consultation and start your journey towards recovery and justice.
1-800-870-8910