Fall 2004 Newsletter

September 17, 2004

 AITKEN * AITKEN * COHN

REDUCE RISK OF INJURY IN CAR CRASHES

A news article that recently crossed our desks outlined some simple tips to help avoid physical injury in the common rear-end vehicle collision.  They include:

• Brace yourself– Contrary to the popular opinion that a loose and relaxed posture helps prevent injury, bracing oneself before impact is the appropriate response.  Contracted muscles better protects bones, cervical discs and nerves from the jolt of the collision.
• Sit straight– Look forward with your body squarely against the seat makes maximum use of the blow-cushioning design of the car seat.  Bending forward also places one in nearer vicinity to
  the air bag, the explosive engagement of which often causes serious injury itself.
• Keep a distance from the steering wheel– Sitting at least six inches from the steering wheel minimizes serious air-bag caused injury.  Those who need pedal extenders to maintain this
  distance should obtain them.
• Set headrest– Headrests are designed to prevent neck and head injury, but they are only effective if they are properly set.  In fact, a headrest that is adjusted to low can increase
  the injury-producing whiplash effect of a collision.  The headrest should contact the area just above the ear to function properly.
• Position seat belts– Not using the shoulder restraint section of the belt allows violent upper torso movement and increases the probability of a spinal cord injury.  Children should use
  child restraint and booster seats until they are large enough to wear a lap/shoulder harness properly.

Statistics indicate that the average person will be involved in a car collision once every ten years.  By being prepared and taking the above steps, the chances of walking away from such a collision injury-free are greatly increased.