Car accidents can happen suddenly, but they often have long-lasting effects. Even more serious than the potential damage to your vehicle is the harm that could come to you or your passengers. While insurance can help cover the financial costs, it is better to avoid bodily harm in the first place. Luckily, there are a few adjustments you can make to stay safer during a collision.

3 Ways to Minimize the Severity of Car Accident Injuries

1. Use Your Seatbelts

In 2017 alone, nearly 15,000 people in America survived car accidents because they were wearing seatbelts. That’s why, no matter your age, height, or vehicle, buckle up.

Even if you’re just heading to a destination down the road—it only takes a few feet of distance to get in an accident. If your car is hit by another driver, this strap will prevent you from flying out of your seat and suffering drastic injuries.

2. Fix Your Seat

While airbags are also essential for your safety in an accident, sitting too close could cause severe bruising or even broken bones. Therefore, if you’re in the driver or passenger seat, move your chair as far away from the front of the vehicle as possible, without hindering your driving abilities.

Then, lift the back of your seat so that you’re sitting upright, with your spine straight and your head against the headrest. This will reduce your upper body’s range of motion if your car is impacted from the front or the back, as well as limit the severity of whiplash.

3. Sit Properly

When you’re not in the driver’s seat, it’s tempting to treat the car like a sofa or armchair, especially if you’re on a long ride. Unfortunately, reclining to the side, placing your feet up on the dash, or laying down on a bench seat can increase the severity of your injuries by preventing your seatbelt from working properly.

In the driver’s seat, leave your left foot flat on the ground. Do the same with your right when using cruise control. This will help you brace for impact during an accident, so you stay firmly planted in your seat.

If you do end up in a car accident, you’ll want to have a reliable insurance policy to cover the expenses. Turn to Accredited Insurance Group, Inc. of Omaha, NE, to help you find the coverage you need. This independent agency has over 30 years of experience catering to individuals and business owners, whether they need home, renters, auto, or motorcycle insurance. To learn more about their offerings, visit the website. You can also call (402) 334-1780 to ask questions.