How Seatbelts Cause Auto Accident Injuries
The primary mechanism of injury in an auto accident is the rapid acceleration-deceleration that occurs when a car suddenly stops, swerves, or is struck, typically from the back, front, or side. According to Newton’s first law of motion, an object in motion tends to stay in motion. This principle explains why everything inside the car, including passengers, continues moving until something stops them. For example, loose items like bags will slide off a seat when you slam on the brakes or take a sharp turn.
This also highlights the critical importance of wearing a seat belt. Without it, an unrestrained driver or passenger could be ejected from the car during an accident, which can be life-threatening or even fatal. While a seat belt may cause some injury due to the force it exerts, the risk of serious harm or death from not wearing one is far greater. The bottom line: buckle up for safety!
How Our Chiropractors Can Help
It’s important to recognize that the powerful acceleration-deceleration forces in car accidents, even minor ones, are often unavoidable. As a result, even when a seat belt is properly worn, it can still cause injury to the neck, shoulders, back, or spine of a restrained driver or passenger. While these injuries can be painful, our Henderson chiropractic team believes it’s a small price to pay for saving lives.
Dr. Day offers a range of chiropractic care services to address and resolve common auto accident injuries, such as whiplash, joint subluxation, muscle strains, and ligament sprains, including:
- Chiropractic Adjustments
- Electric Stimulation
- Shoulder/Core Strengthening Exercises
- Ultrasound Therapy
- Massage Therapy
- Postural Re-Training