Common Airbag and Seatbelt Injuries

Airbags and seatbelts are crucial safety features in vehicles that can prevent serious injuries and save lives in accidents. However, they can also sometimes cause their own injuries. Understanding the most common airbag and seatbelt injuries may help you seek proper treatment from a chiropractor near you if you experience them after an accident. For more information, contact us at Chiropractic Centers of Drs. Campanella & Olivacz, your chiropractor in Bel Air, MD, and your chiropractor in Havre De Grace, MD.

Whiplash

Whiplash is one of the most common injuries caused by both airbags and seatbelts. When the airbag deploys or the seatbelt locks suddenly, it creates a sudden jolt to the body that causes the head to whip back and forth forcefully. This can strain the soft tissues in the neck, resulting in whiplash injuries. Symptoms include neck pain and stiffness, reduced range of motion, headaches, dizziness, and more:

• Pain or stiffness when turning the head from side to side
• Muscle spasms in the neck
• Headaches that start at the base of the skull

Chest and Rib Injuries

The explosive force of an airbag deploying can also cause injuries to the chest and ribs. Airbags deploy at high speeds, which can bruise or even fracture ribs if you are too close. Seatbelts can also cause rib injuries and bruising during sudden deceleration.

Arm and Hand Injuries

Airbags deploy through the steering wheel and dashboard, which can cause injuries to the arms and hands if they are too close. Fractures, sprains, and cuts are common arm/hand airbag injuries. Hands-on the steering wheel during deployment are at high risk.

• Cuts and abrasions from airbag components
• Fractured or sprained wrists
• Fractured forearms from forceful contact

Seatbelt Shoulder Injuries

The seatbelt shoulder strap locks suddenly in a crash, which can put significant force on the shoulder and collarbone. Fractures or dislocations of the collarbone and shoulder joints can occur. The strap may also cause bruising or cuts during lockup.

Get Chiropractic Care from an Auto Accident Chiropractor Near You

If you experience musculoskeletal injuries related to airbags or seatbelts after an auto accident, don’t hesitate to seek expert chiropractic care from an auto accident chiropractor near you. We can help treat these injuries and help get you back to full mobility as quickly as possible. Contact us at Chiropractic Centers of Drs. Campanella & Olivacz, your chiropractor in Bel Air, MD, and your chiropractor in Havre De Grace, MD, today to schedule an appointment with our wellness team. Don’t live with pain - we’re here to help you fully recover. Call us at (410) 893-8339 or at (410) 939-4488 for more information.