Car accidents are a leading cause of bone fractures in Maryland. However, there are certain bones that are more susceptible to fractures than others.
The skull
Usually, skull fractures occur in car accidents when there is a direct blow to the head, such as hitting the steering wheel or dashboard. In more serious accidents, the force of the impact can cause the skull to fracture in multiple places.
The collarbone
This bone is located between the shoulder and chest. It helps to connect the arm to the body. Collarbone fractures are common in car accidents, particularly frontal collisions. The force of the impact can cause the bone to snap or shatter.
The ribs
In car accidents that result in front or rear-end collisions, the force of the impact can cause the ribs to fracture. Usually, multiple ribs are broken at once.
The arm
The humerus is the bone that runs from the shoulder to the elbow. In car accidents, it is common for the humerus to fracture near the shoulder joint. This type of injury usually occurs in frontal collisions. On top of that, the radius and ulna are the two bones that make up the forearm. These bones can also fracture in car accidents.
The spine
The spine is made up of a series of bones (vertebrae) that extend from the base of the skull to the pelvis. In car accidents, the force of the impact can cause the vertebrae to fracture. This type of injury is more common in rear-end collisions.
Wearing a seatbelt is the best way to reduce your risk of injury. Seatbelts help to keep you in place and prevent you from getting ejected from the vehicle. In addition, make sure to adjust your headrest so that it is in line with the top of your head to reduce the risk of neck and spine injuries.