What should I do if I know another car is going to hit me? Will keeping my body loose and relaxed prevent injuries in a Boca Raton car accident?

A:

I’ve heard people say that drunk drivers are less likely to be injured than sober drivers because their bodies are relaxed from alcohol. This is simply not true. Drunk drivers actually sustain serious injuries at a higher rate than other drivers.

In fact, according to some experts, relaxing is the wrong thing to do if you know that you are going to be in a Boca Raton car crash. Contracting your muscles can actually protect your bones, nerves and ligaments and even prevent serious injury.

Here are five things that you can do if a Boca Raton car crash is inevitable.

1. Face forward and look straight ahead with an eye on the rear view mirror.
2. Sit squarely in your seat with your head against the headrest.
3. Hold the steering wheel firmly with your hands in the ten o'clock and two o'clock positions.
4. Tighten up and brace your body.
5. Straighten out your wrists to prevent wrist injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome.

However, your best injury prevention happens long before the accident occurs. The car you choose and the safety features you use can determine whether or not you walk away from a Boca Raton car wreck.

1. When buying a car, check its safety ratings.
2. Remember, large cars are safer than small cars.
3. Make sure that you can sit at least six inches away from the steering wheel.
4. Position the headrest so the curve of the headrest touches your head right above ear level.
5. Always use both the shoulder harness and lap belt of your seatbelt.
6. Replace your seatbelt after ten years or after any major accident.
7. Make sure your car is properly maintained.

After a car accident, stay away from traffic and make safety your priority.

For more information about Florida car accidents, request a free copy of David Glatthorn’s book, The Florida Accident Workbook: Tools, Tips & Tactics to Resolve Your Injury Claim. To discuss a Florida accident claim with a Boca Raton injury lawyer, contact David Glattorn at 866-413-5525.