Car accidents can be traumatic for anyone involved, but they are especially dangerous for children and seniors. Because of their size and delicate stature, these age groups are more prone to sustaining severe injuries and may require more intensive medical treatment. Here are some ways car accidents can affect young and old passengers and what you can do to protect yourself and loved ones on the road.
Why are they more susceptible to injuries?
There are several reasons why children and elders face a greater risk of severe injuries in a car wreck than adults:
- Children and older people are smaller and lighter than adults, which means a collision’s force can do much more damage.
- Children have softer heads than adults, making them more vulnerable to serious head injuries.
- A child’s bones and muscles are still developing, making them more prone to fractures and other injuries.
- An elder often has weaker bones and muscles, making them more prone to fractures and other injuries.
- Older individuals are more fragile than adults in accidents. Fragility begins around middle age and increases as a person gets older.
- Both children and elders may not be able to react quickly in an accident, which can increase their risk of injury.
How to keep your passengers safe
Whether driving with kids or older adults, there are several steps you can take to protect these passengers from serious harm:
- Use proper car seats and restraints: Children should always be properly secured in a car seat appropriate for their age and size.
- Always wear a seatbelt: Seatbelts are one of the most effective ways to reduce injuries in a crash and save lives at any age.
- Drive defensively: Follow all traffic laws and be aware of your surroundings. This can help you avoid accidents and keep children and elders safe.
- Seek medical attention: If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Children and elders may require more intensive medical treatment due to their vulnerabilities.
Car accidents are devastating for most, but certain age groups face more significant risks. While you may not be able to prevent a collision from occurring, following these tips can help protect you and your loved ones in the event that one happens.
