Auto accidents in our area are fast becoming a growing concern. Statistical data reveals an increase in the number of car accidents over the last 5 to 6 years. While these figures may have been steady for a while, the increase is a cause for concern. While risking their own lives by rash driving, such road users also put lives of innocent or more responsible road users in danger at no fault of theirs.

Accidents do not just happen because they are destined to or due to some quirk of fate, but are caused. Here are some reasons why car accidents take place:

• Rash or irresponsible driving is a prime factor.
• Drinking and driving cases are a common cause of car accidents.
• While improved technology and effective safety mechanisms are important features of cars today, the purpose is lost when people text and drive at the same time.
• Using a cell phone, even if it’s with a hands-free device leads to accidents. Multitasking may take your focus off the road and the traffic ahead.
• Analysts attribute the recent increase in figures partly to the weather conditions and the economy. With a mild winter this year and last, and with the economy, there were more road users and traffic increased. 

The possible physical damages are appalling. A car accident may leave you injured or permanently disabled. Sometimes the damage may be to a small area but may be irreversible.

An accident may throw you violently out of your car or may cause a whiplash effect in which your neck may jerk forward and backward and cause serious damage. The safety belt holds your body back but the neck is unprotected.

You may have a concussion which may lead to internal bleeding especially in your brain which can be quite dangerous. Some symptoms of whiplash or concussions may be –

• Double or blurred vision
• Problems with concentration or memory
• Dizziness
• Sensitivity to light or sound
• Headaches
• Nausea
• Irrational behavior
• Moodiness/excessive mood swings

In case of accident while the driving has been at high speeds there can be injury to vital internal organs, joints, bones and muscle. There can be spinal injury as a consequence of violent forward and backward movements of the neck. Spinal injury takes place even at lower speeds like 5 to 10 mph.

An accident also impacts a person’s mental condition. While the minor physical injuries may be overcome with timely treatment and medication, an accident victim may be traumatized significantly and may find it difficult to overcome the same.

Recovery from car accident injuries may be slow and the patient may take time to get back to normal physically as well as mentally. What’s important is to have a complete physical examination after an accident so that the less visible or internal injuries are not ignored.

It is always better to be safe than sorry by driving safely for yourself and for the safety of other road users. 

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Midwest Spine & Injury Centers is dedicated to helping people involved in auto-accidents, chronic pain, herniated/bulging discs and other health concerns. We utilize a comprehensive approach to helping and treating patients. We use a combination of chiropractic care, nutritional counseling, acupuncture, physical therapy, rehabilitation, and other various forms of safe alternatives to health care. 

To learn more about Dr. Glickert; visit his website HERE