Car accidents result in numerous personal injury claims every year. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately three million Americans are harmed in non-fatal traffic collisions annually. Unfortunately, many of these incidents are due to negligent motorists sharing the road with responsible drivers. As such, the following guide outlines a few precautions you can take to lower your risk of serious injury should you experience a crash.

How to Reduce the Risk of Being Seriously Injured in a Car Accident

1. Wear Your Seatbelt 

Seatbelts are one of the most important safety features of a vehicle. You’ll get the best protection by positioning the belt over one shoulder rather than placing it behind you or underneath your arm. Also, you should always wear the lap portion low on your hips instead of across your stomach, and make sure the belt isn’t twisted anywhere, as this can cause bruising upon impact.

2. Adjust the Seat & Steering Wheel

Airbags help to cushion the impact of a crash and keep drivers from slamming full force into the dashboard, windshield, or door. However, if you’re seated too close to your airbags, there’s greater potential for personal injury claims involving severe head, face, neck, and chest injuries.

For this reason, adjust your seat as far back from the steering wheel as possible. Also, ensure the steering wheel is pointed towards your chest and not your head since this is where the airbag is most effective when deployed.

3. Sit Up Properly 

You may not give much thought to how you sit while driving, but it can make a difference in your safety. This is because airbags and seatbelts are designed to provide the most protection when you’re sitting up properly in the driver’s seat instead of hunched down or leaning to the side. Additionally, your feet should be placed flat on the floor and never propped up on the dash.

If you’ve been hurt in a car accident, turn to Cada Cada & Jewson in Lincoln, NE, to discuss your legal options. In the event someone else was at fault, they’ll help you file a personal injury claim to pursue the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and lost wages. With more than 50 years of combined experience, they’re qualified to handle every aspect of your case so you can focus on making a full recovery. Call (402) 477-2233 to schedule a free consultation or visit them online to learn more about their services.