Car crashes can be life-threatening experiences, and no one intends to be in one. Unfortunately, accidents can happen to anyone at any time, and it’s important to be prepared. Knowing what to do in the event of a car crash in Minnesota can help you survive the accident and minimize the risk of injury or death.
Wear your seatbelt
Wearing your seatbelt is one of the most important things you can do to protect yourself in a car crash. Seatbelts are designed to keep you in your seat and prevent you from being thrown from the vehicle. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that seat belts saved 14,668 lives in car accidents in 2016 alone.
Stay calm
Feeling scared and overwhelmed is natural if you are in a car crash. However, staying calm can help you think more clearly and make better decisions that can make a difference in the outcome. Take a few deep breaths and focus on what you must do to stay safe.
Assess the situation
Once the crash has occurred, take a moment to assess the situation. Check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If you can move, try to get out of the vehicle and move to a safe location.
Call for help
If you or anyone else is injured, call 911 immediately. Even if there are no visible injuries, it’s crucial to get medical attention to rule out any internal injuries or other medical issues that may not be immediately apparent.
Turn off the engine
If your car is still running, turn off the engine. This will prevent any additional damage or risk of fire.
Use hazard lights
Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers of an accident. This will help keep other cars from piling on.
Stay put
Unless there is a fire or other immediate danger, it’s generally safest to stay put and wait for help. Keep clear of further danger and within a radius where first responders can find you. Moving around can increase the risk of further injury.
Seek medical attention
Even if you feel fine after the crash, it’s still a good idea to seek the help of a medical professional. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent and could worsen if left untreated.
Stay off social media
It’s important to resist the urge to post about the accident on social media right away. Instead, focus on your safety and getting the help you need.
Surviving a car crash
Being involved in a car crash can be a terrifying experience, but there are things you can do to increase your chances of survival. Following a few critical steps can save your life and reduce the risk of severe injury. Staying aware is key and seeking medical attention is advisable regardless of whether you feel injury symptoms or not.