How to Protect Yourself When Your Vehicle is About to Be Hit from Behind

Experiencing a rear-end collision is one of the most terrifying moments a driver can face. As someone who was once in such a situation, I can share firsthand insights on how essential it is to stay proactive and prepared. There simply isn't enough time for reactive actions, as the impact often happens within a matter of seconds. Being proactive can significantly enhance your safety and help prevent further damage to yourself and your vehicle.

Proactive Measures

Ensure Your Vehicle is Pointed Straight Ahead

One of the most important steps is to always point your vehicle and wheels straight ahead, especially if you're preparing to make a turn. This action ensures that you're in the best possible position to react to unexpected situations. I've seen multiple instances where vehicles were hit from behind while the driver had their wheels unnecessarily pointed in the direction of oncoming traffic, leading to severe accidents. One incident even resulted in a woman having her legs trapped under a truck's front tire, with her leg crippled due to the force of the impact.

Post-Impact Protocols

Seek Medical Treatment Immediately

Following a collision, it is crucial to go to the hospital, regardless of your initial sense of wellbeing. Even if you believe you are unharmed, the adrenaline rush caused by the accident can mask more serious injuries. I can attest to this; during my own accident, I thought I was fine but later found out I had dislocated ribs and partially torn rotator cuffs.

A family member of mine once sustained significant injuries similar to the previous example. As they were preparing to turn left, their vehicle was hit from behind, causing them to be forced into oncoming traffic. This not only led to severe physical injuries but also created a challenging situation for medical intervention. The unfortunate outcome involved a semi's front tire remaining on their legs, and they could only be freed with the assistance of a wrecker. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of seeking medical attention promptly post-accident.

Why Go to the Hospital?

Medical professionals can perform the necessary check-ups and tests to identify any internal injuries that may not be immediately apparent. Misleading initial symptoms can, unfortunately, be misconstrued as a sign of minor trauma, leading to underreporting of serious injuries. This was the case with the injury I suffered after mowing the lawn, which appeared to be unrelated to the accident until it became apparent that the accident had caused more damage than initially thought. I was prescribed surgery for my rotator cuffs, and the incident has left me with ongoing back pain. Regular chiropractic realignment has been essential in managing these issues, but the experience remains a constant reminder of the value in not overlooking post-accident medical evaluations.

Conclusion

Being proactive in these critical moments can be the difference between a minor inconvenience and a life-altering injury. Always keep your vehicle and wheels pointed in the correct direction, and do not hesitate to seek medical attention after a collision, no matter how well you initially feel. These simple steps can help ensure your safety and well-being in the event of a rear-end collision.