In the bustling streets of Winston-Salem, NC, car crashes are an unfortunate reality, and understanding their impact on the human body is crucial. Roderick McIver of the McIver Law Firm, specializing in personal injury, witnesses the aftermath of such events and emphasizes the importance of awareness and education. This blog explores the physics behind car crashes and their effects on the body at different speeds: 20 mph, 40 mph, and 60 mph.
If you or someone you love have been injured due to a car accident, Winston-Salem car accident lawyer, Roderick T. McIver can help you get justice for your damages. Attorney McIver delivers personal service to his clients with years of experience and results proving his skill. Call our office today or complete our contact form to get the help you deserve!
The Physics of a Car Crash and How it Affects Your Body
One must first understand the fundamental physics involved to grasp the impact of a car crash on the body. Newton’s First Law of Motion, the principle of inertia, states that an object in motion stays in motion unless acted upon by an external force. In a car crash, the car abruptly stops, but the bodies inside continue to move until some force halts them, whether it’s a seatbelt, airbag, or the structure of the vehicle.
This sudden deceleration creates significant forces on the body, leading to potential injuries. The severity of these injuries is influenced by various factors including the vehicle’s speed at the time of impact, the nature of the collision, safety features of the car, and whether or not the occupants are wearing seatbelts.
Impact at 20 MPH
At 20 mph, typical of residential areas or congested urban streets, the force exerted during a crash is relatively lower compared to higher-speed impacts. However, even at these speeds, injuries can occur. The most common are ‘whiplash’ injuries, where the sudden stop causes the neck to snap forward and then backward, straining the muscles and ligaments.
Seat belts and airbags play a crucial role in minimizing injuries at this speed. However, passengers can still suffer from bruises, minor cuts, or concussions, especially if they collide with parts of the interior or if they are not properly restrained.
Impact at 40 MPH
At 40 mph, common on many city roads and highways, the force of impact significantly increases. Here, the risk of serious injuries escalates. The body’s internal organs are particularly vulnerable. They may be jostled or compressed against the skeletal structure, leading to internal bleeding or damage.
Fractures become more likely at this speed, especially in the extremities or ribs. The increased force can cause severe head injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, which may have long-term consequences. Additionally, the risk of spinal injuries increases, potentially leading to long-lasting or permanent disability.
Impact at 60 MPH
Traveling at 60 mph, the typical speed limit on many highways, the body is subjected to extreme forces in the event of a crash. The likelihood of fatal or critical injuries skyrockets. High-speed collisions can lead to a wide range of severe injuries, including compound fractures, significant internal injuries, and major head trauma.
At these speeds, the chances of sustaining life-altering injuries such as spinal cord damage are markedly increased. Such injuries can result in paralysis or other permanent disabilities. The psychological impact of high-speed crashes should not be underestimated either, as they can lead to long-term psychological trauma and conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Safety Measures and Legal Assistance
Understanding the impact of car crashes is vital, but so is taking preventative measures. Adhering to speed limits, using seatbelts, and relying on your vehicle’s safety features like airbags are essential for reducing injury risk. Defensive driving practices also play a critical role in accident prevention.
In the unfortunate event of an accident, legal assistance becomes indispensable. Navigating the complexities of personal injury law and dealing with insurance claims can be overwhelming, especially while recovering from an accident. Roderick McIver and the McIver Law Firm in Winston-Salem, NC, specialize in personal injury law, offering essential legal support and guidance to those impacted by car accidents. Their expertise ensures that victims receive the necessary assistance and compensation for their recovery and rehabilitation.
Contact the McIver Law Firm Today to Get Attorney McIver in Your Corner!
The human body can sustain a range of injuries during a car crash, with the severity generally increasing with the speed of the collision. Understanding these potential injuries and their implications is important for both prevention and effective response. Moreover, having an experienced personal injury lawyer like Roderick McIver can be pivotal in navigating the aftermath of a car accident, ensuring that the rights and needs of the injured are adequately represented and addressed.
If you or someone you love have been injured in a car crash in or around Winston Salem, NC, the McIver Law Firm is here for you. Attorney McIver and his dedicated support staff can be reached at 336-727-9886 or by completing our contact form. Call us today and let us get started getting you the compensation you deserve with the personalized care you expect.
