There are many ways to get injured in a car accident. Sometimes, it is the force of the initial impact that causes harm. In other situations, it is secondary effects which hurt car occupants. Among these injuries are ones from metal shards.
When a vehicle is involved in a collision, fragments of its body break off. Sometimes, it is a result of the car crumpling to pieces or a side effect of air bags deploying. The momentum of the crash may cause shards to fly through the air at damaging speeds. Inertia can also fling a person into the debris.
Shards may cause a variety of injuries, including severe punctures or lacerations. If a long object pierces the skin, it is a puncture. When tissue and/or skin are cut or torn open, it becomes a laceration. These wounds may be so superficial they only require disinfectant and a bandage. Others can cause lasting, debilitating damage.
With any wound, it is important to stop the bleeding. Depending on the injury, the treatment can range from direct pressure, sutures, or surgery. Keeping the injuries clean and free of infection is also vital. Heavy blood loss or severe infections can lead to a greater need for medical treatment, longer hospital stays, or death.
Location and severity of the injuries can lead to disfigurement and scarring. Careful management of the lacerations or punctures can reduce the severity but still scar. In some instances, the patient may want to seek reconstructive surgery to try to alleviate their disfigurement. Plastic surgery may help, but it may not eliminate the damage.
In extreme cases, metal shards may reach the eyes, internal organs, or the spine. These may cause blindness, impaired mobility, and other health crises. Such life changing events require extensive hospitalization or time in rehabilitation.
What Should I Do After I am Involved in a Car Accident?
If you are able to, contact the police. Officers who arrive at the scene will eventually create a police report of the incident. Request a copy of the report to help corroborate the events of the collision. They will also send an ambulance to provide medical treatment. If you get treated, get documentation of your injuries.
At the accident scene, exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. You should limit conversations with the other driver. If there are witnesses, collect statements and contact information in case you need to reach them later. Take photographs of the crash from several angles.
Even with extensive paperwork to bolster your case, you should contact a car accident lawyer for assistance. Their familiarity with the legal and insurance worlds will make your claim stronger.
Atlantic City Car Accident Lawyers at the D’Amato Law Firm Advocate for Clients Injured from Metal Shards During Collisions
If metal shards severely injured you during a car accident that was caused by a negligent driver, reach out to one of our experienced Atlantic City car accident lawyers at the D’Amato Law Firm. To schedule a free consultation today, call us at 609-926-3300 or contact us online. Located in Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey, we proudly serve clients throughout South Jersey, including Atlantic City, Linwood, Galloway Township, Cape May, Vineland, Millville, Bridgeton, Ocean City, and Woodbury.