Each year, there are over 10 million car accidents in the United States, according to the National Safety Council. The car insurance industry estimates that the average driver will experience three to four accidents over the course of their lifetime. While these crashes may not be deadly, they could still lead to long-term chronic pain. Worried about Santa Barbara automobile accident injuries? Follow these five tips to reduce your risk for chronic pain and injury.
5 Ways to Reduce Your Risk for Auto Injuries
1. Always wear a seat belt. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, seat belts reduce the risk of serious injury or death by 50%. The majority of minor accidents happen close to home. Buckling your seat belt before you pull out of the drive way is the best way to avoid a serious spinal misalignment.
2. Adjust your headrest. Your headrest should be level with the top of your ear. This will help prevent your cervical spine from whipping backwards and forwards if you are rear-ended. Without proper headrest support, you will be at greater risk for a whiplash injury.
3. Adjust your car seat. Think you look cool driving with your seat reclined? Think again. Seats that are not correctly positioned are unable to properly support the spine during an accident. Position your seat so you are sitting straight up with your head close to the head rest this goes for both drivers and passengers.
4. Be alert. Defensive driving can help you avoid minor fender benders. A few dents on the bumper may not seem like much, but accidents at speeds as slow as 5mph can cause whiplash and lower back pain. By remaining alert while driving (and putting away the phone!) you can reduce your risk for an injury.
5. Accident victim? Seek immediate treatment. An auto accident can cause serious trauma to the musculoskeletal system. After an accident, dont wait for chronic pain. The earlier our chiropractors can diagnose a spinal misalignment, then the more we can do to help your body heal safely and quickly.
Did we miss something? Tell us -- how do you reduce the risk for a car accident injury?