Even at relatively low speeds, auto accidents can be extremely dangerous, possibly resulting in broken bones, concussions, soft tissue injuries, and significant mental trauma. No matter how careful you try to be, another driver’s negligence can quickly cause an accident with consequences that could affect the rest of your life. If you’ve been hurt in a collision through no fault of your own, a personal injury attorney can help recover compensation for your damages, but the tips below will help minimize your losses in the first place.

How to Lower Your Risk of Severe Harm During a Collision

1. Use Safety Equipment

Properly using a seatbelt cuts the risk of suffering a serious injury by half for passengers in the front seat, and even more for those in the back. Always buckle up, make sure the belt is low across your hips, and ensure that all of your passengers are restrained before driving away. Children should always ride in a car seat appropriate for their size that is securely and correctly buckled in.

2. Sit Up Straight

Every vehicle’s safety features are designed to protect passengers who are sitting up straight, so don’t slouch or let anyone lay across the seat. Passengers should also keep their feet off the dashboard, as this can lead to extremely serious leg injuries in an accident.

3. Seek Medical Attention

Many of the injuries common in auto accidents don’t become apparent until hours or even days later. After a crash, seek medical attention for everyone in your vehicle, even if they don’t appear to be hurt. Seeing a doctor will ensure you get the treatment you need and help your personal injury attorney link your medical condition to the accident.
 

If you or someone you love has been hurt in an auto accident, the personal injury attorneys at Reagan, Melton, Delaney will fight to protect your rights and help achieve justice. With offices in Lincoln and Bellevue, they represent accident victims throughout eastern and southeastern Nebraska, providing award-winning service in a variety of difficult situations. Visit their website to see how they can help after an accident, call (402) 932-9494 to contact a personal injury attorney in Bellevue or dial (402) 476-6585 to schedule a consultation at their office in Lincoln.