Airbags and seatbelts are integral safety features designed to save lives in auto collisions. However, they can also lead to certain injuries during a crash due to the sheer force they deploy. At Health First Chiropractic Marysville, your chiropractor in Marysville, WA, we can help treat patients who have sustained an injury from these key safety devices. If you were recently in an accident, here are some common airbag and seatbelt injuries to watch out for:
Airbag-Related Injuries
Frontal airbags cushion passengers from the impact of hitting the steering wheel, dashboard, or windshield. However, they deploy at high-speeds before deflating instantly. This rapid inflation and violent force can cause various injuries:
Friction burns may develop on exposed skin from the airbag rubbing against it as it deploys. These appear as painful, red, and blistered areas of skin, most often on the arms that holding the steering wheel. The loud bang of airbag deployment can also damage the ear.
In some cases, the force of an airbag can cause breathing problems. It may bruise or even fracture ribs, making it very painful to breathe. The smoke released during inflation can irritate the airways as well. Airbags may also hit drivers in the face or chest with enough force to result in black eyes or head trauma.
Seatbelt Injuries
While seatbelts are vital for preventing passengers from being ejected in a crash, their emergency lockup on impact can also lead to localized injury. Some seatbelt injuries can include neck sprains from whiplash and shoulder dislocations due to the arm being yanked with extreme force.
Get Auto Accident Injury Treatment and Chiropractic Care from an Auto Accident Chiropractor Near You
If you sustained any seatbelt or airbag injuries that deal with the musculoskeletal system, we are here to help. Our team at Health First Chiropractic Marysville, your chiropractor in Marysville, WA, can help address your pain and get you on the path to recovery. Call us at (360) 658-1987 for auto accident injury treatment and chiropractic care from an auto accident chiropractor near you.