what happens when a car hits you from the side

3 min read 26-12-2024

what happens when a car hits you from the side

Side-impact collisions, also known as T-bone accidents, are particularly dangerous. Understanding what happens in these crashes is crucial for prevention and knowing what to expect if you're involved. This article details the physics of side impacts, common injuries, and steps to take after an accident.

The Physics of a Side Impact Collision

When a car hits you from the side, the impact force is concentrated on a smaller area than in a head-on collision. This results in significantly higher pressure. Your vehicle's structure, designed to withstand frontal impacts, might not offer the same level of protection against lateral forces. The impact can cause your car to rotate or even be pushed into oncoming traffic.

Forces at Play

Impact Force: The force of the collision is transferred to your body, often causing immediate injuries.
Inertia: Your body's tendency to remain in motion until acted upon by an outside force contributes to injuries. Without proper restraint, you could be thrown violently against the door or interior of your car.
Secondary Collisions: You might experience secondary collisions within the car, such as your head striking the window or your body hitting the dashboard.

Common Injuries in Side-Impact Collisions

Side impacts often lead to serious injuries due to the concentrated force and potential for significant body movement. These injuries can range from minor to life-threatening.

Types of Injuries

Head and Neck Injuries: Whiplash, concussions, skull fractures.
Chest and Abdominal Injuries: Broken ribs, lung damage, internal bleeding, spleen or liver lacerations.
Pelvic and Leg Injuries: Fractures, dislocations.
Thoracic and Lumbar Injuries: Spinal fractures, paralysis (in severe cases).

Minimizing the Risk of Side-Impact Collisions

Preventing side-impact collisions requires vigilance and defensive driving techniques.

Safety Measures

Awareness: Always be aware of your surroundings, especially at intersections. Look both ways before proceeding, even if you have a green light.
Defensive Driving: Leave ample space between your vehicle and others, particularly when approaching intersections.
Blind Spot Checks: Regularly check your blind spots before changing lanes or making turns.
Vehicle Features: Consider vehicles equipped with advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warnings, and automatic emergency braking.

What to Do After a Side-Impact Collision

Following a side-impact collision, your immediate actions are vital.

Steps to Take

Safety First: Ensure the safety of yourself and others involved. Move to a safe location if possible.
Call Emergency Services: Call 911 immediately, especially if there are serious injuries.
Document the Scene: Take photos and videos of the damage to both vehicles, the surrounding area, and any visible injuries. Note the location, time, and weather conditions.
Gather Information: Exchange information with the other driver(s), including insurance details, driver's license numbers, and contact information.
Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel okay, seek medical attention. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Contact Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Follow their instructions carefully.

Understanding Side Impact Airbags

Many modern vehicles are equipped with side-impact airbags designed to mitigate injuries in these types of collisions.

Airbag Function

Side-impact airbags, often located in the doors or seatbacks, inflate rapidly to cushion the impact and help prevent your body from striking the interior of the vehicle. However, they are not a guarantee of injury prevention; always wear your seatbelt.

Conclusion

Side-impact collisions are a serious threat on the road. By understanding the forces involved, practicing defensive driving, and knowing what to do after an accident, you can significantly reduce your risk and improve your chances of a better outcome. Remember, your safety and the safety of others is paramount. Always prioritize safe driving practices.