Did you suffer a steering wheel injury in a car accident? A knowledgeable lawyer can help you understand your rights under Florida law and file a comprehensive personal injury claim to demand compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and more.
Most Common Types of Steering Wheel Injuries
Steering wheel injuries vary widely depending on the severity of the collision. Here are some common injuries that can occur when the body collides with a steering wheel during an accident:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries: If the head strikes the steering wheel forcefully, it can cause a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Common TBI symptoms include headaches, confusion, dizziness, and, in severe cases, long-term cognitive issues.
- Facial Injuries: The driver’s face can sustain cuts, bruises, or fractures from hitting the steering wheel in a crash. Such head injuries might lead to scars or require surgical intervention to repair deeper lacerations or broken facial bones.
- Broken Bones: The ribs and arms are particularly vulnerable to fractures during a steering wheel impact. The sudden force can break these bones, causing severe pain and requiring medical treatment to heal correctly. This can involve chest injuries as well as hand and wrist injuries.
- Internal Bleeding: A forceful impact between a steering wheel and the abdomen or chest area can damage internal organs and cause internal bleeding. This condition may not be immediately apparent, but it is highly dangerous and requires immediate medical attention.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Muscles, ligaments, and tendons can also sustain trauma from hitting a steering wheel in an accident. These common steering wheel injuries often result in swelling, pain, and a reduced range of motion, which can take weeks or even months to heal.
How Do Steering Wheel Injuries Occur?
Steering wheel injuries happen during car accidents when the driver’s body hits the steering wheel. This can occur in frontal collisions or rear-end accidents where the force of the crash propels the driver forward. Even with seatbelts and airbags, the impact can be severe enough to cause serious harm.
Factors that influence the severity of steering wheel injuries include the vehicle’s speed at the time of the accident, the presence and functionality of airbags, and whether the driver was wearing a seatbelt. The design and material of the steering wheel can also affect the type and severity of the injuries. Drivers who sit closer to the steering wheel are at higher risk of serious injuries during a crash.
Can I Receive Compensation for a Steering Wheel Injury in Florida?
Yes, car accident victims can receive compensation for a steering wheel injury after a Florida car crash. Florida’s no-fault insurance laws require all drivers to carry personal injury protection (PIP) insurance. Your PIP coverage pays for medical expenses and lost wages up to your policy’s limit, regardless of who caused the accident. Additionally, for severe injuries, you might be able to “step outside” the no-fault system and pursue additional compensation from the at-fault driver. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you identify all potential sources of compensation and maximize your recovery.
Contact an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer in Pensacola Today
Are you dealing with a steering wheel injury from a car accident in Florida? Contact Cardoso Law, PLLC, today for a free initial consultation. Our team will help you understand your insurance benefits and explore all your options for seeking fair compensation.
