About this topic
Some motor vehicle accidents cause no injuries or you may be hurt just a little. Other times, you may have more serious injuries. You may have injuries that are easy to see like cuts or bruises. Sometimes, it may not look like anything is wrong with you. You may still be taken to the emergency room to be checked to make sure there are no hidden injuries. ‚
What are the causes?
Your chances of being seriously injured in a motor vehicle crash are higher if you are: ‚
- Sitting in the front seat
- Not wearing a seatbelt
- Thrown from the vehicle
- Hit by the vehicle
What can make this more likely to happen?
- Use of illegal drugs and alcohol abuse
- Poor weather conditions
- Falling asleep or driving when tired
- Driving too fast
- Distracted driving
What are the main signs?
- Pain and soreness from wounds, cuts, or bruising
- Bleeding, broken bones, or trouble moving
- Problems breathing
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
At the hospital, the doctors will ask about your health history and the cause of the accident. The doctor will do an exam and will check your: ‚
- Airway, breathing, and blood flow
- Level of alertness
- Senses and reflexes
- Damage and deformities to bones
- Wounds, cuts, bruises, and bleeding
- Pain and swelling
- Changes in speech, actions, and recall
The doctor may order: ‚
- Lab tests
- X-rays
- CT or MRI scan
- Ultrasound
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
The doctor will treat your injuries based on how badly you are hurt. Sometimes, no further care is needed. ‚
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Help with pain and swelling
- Ease muscle spasms
What problems could happen?
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
There are no specific ways to prevent motor vehicle accidents. Ways you can help to stay safe are: ‚
- Always wear a seat belt. Drive safely. Obey speed limits. Do not drink and drive.
- Avoid distractions while driving. Do not text or talk on the phone while driving.
- Take breaks and rest periods so you do not get drowsy when driving.
- Take extra care when in high-risk conditions:
- Rain, snow, or bad weather
- Traffic
- Late at night
Where can I learn more?
National Institute of General Medical Sciences ‚
http://www.nigms.nih.gov/Education/Factsheet_Trauma.htm ‚
Last Reviewed Date
2015-04-06 ‚
List_set bdysylist
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care provider 's advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
Copyright
Copyright ‚ © 2016 Wolters Kluwer Clinical Drug Information, Inc. and its affiliates and/or licensors. All rights reserved. ‚