Every year in the U.S. nearly three million people are injured in a car crash. Each day more than 100 people die from car crash injuries, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
While it may seem a bit morbid, the National Safety Council cites that we have a 1 in 114 chance of dying in a vehicle crash. Knowing that so many of us are injured and can die from these injuries it makes sense that we should err on the side of caution.
Why injured people don’t call for help after an accident
Obviously if you are involved in a bump or mild “fender bender” there will not be a need to be rushed to the hospital. What many people don’t realize is that some serious injuries are invisible at first. Adrenaline surges right after an accident and can often mask pain. A concussion can prevent someone from thinking clearly and making wise decisions. Shock is a serious issue because the person who is in shock doesn’t know it. People who are in shock and who are seriously injured will say they are fine. They may even attempt to drive a vehicle that is obviously and dangerously inoperable. Yet another reason people hesitate to accept help from EMTs is they worry about the cost. When your health, and possibly life, are on the line this should not be the reason to decline assistance.
5 top instances to get in the ambulance
- If you or any of your passengers are dizzy, confused or vomit after the collision. These are signs of a concussion or traumatic brain injury (TBI).
- If you or any of your passengers are bleeding.
- If you or any of your passengers have a pounding headache, vision loss or are having trouble hearing.
- If you or any of your passengers are cold, sweaty and appear pale or gray, and have dilated pupils. These are symptoms of shock.
- If you or any of your passengers have weakness on one side of the body, chest pain, skin discoloration, are short of breath and have experienced blunt force impact during the crash. A windshield, seat belt or airbag can cause this. This could be internal bleeding, which is not always immediately evident.
Not seeing a doctor right away can be the difference between life and death. People who leave an accident and go home to lie down risk losing consciousness. If you are even a little unsure as to whether or not to accept emergency transport and be seen by medical profession always err on the side of caution. The paramedics can stabilize you right away. If you are worried that your health insurance company will deny you coverage for the ambulance ride or treatment you received speak to a personal injury lawyer about your rights.
