Loose Objects in Cars Cause Accidents and Serious Injuries
Many people do not realize that loose objects in the car can be dangerous for multiple reasons. Loose objects can lead to deadly distracted driving and cause car wrecks. Additionally, objects in cars can actually increase the risk of injury during an accident.
Often, drivers will drive vehicles with many personal items on the seats and floors of the car. Although this may not seem like an immediate threat or problem, these seemingly innocuous items can cause serious injuries and accidents.
Loose Objects are Distractions
Personal items in the car, such as bags, purses, coins, travel cups, and other items, can shift during driving and distract the driver so much so that it could cause the driver to get into an accident.
Additionally, if drivers are storing items on the floor of the driver’s side, these items can shift and move under the driving pedals, which could cause the pedals to jam. Be sure to keep the floors free of items and periodically check the floor mat on the driver’s side to ensure that it is not causing bunching or obstruction of the pedals.
How Should I Safely Store Items in my Car?
In the United States, approximately 13,000 injuries are caused by items and objects in cars each year. If you are in a car accident, an injury can occur from travel mugs, CDs, cellphones, or other items that could fly around in the car. Ensuring that bottles and mugs fit properly in the cup holders can reduce the chance of these items becoming dangerous projectiles during a crash.
Instead of storing personal bags and purses on the passenger seat, a better option is to store them on the floor in front of the passenger’s seat. If children are not in the car, remove booster seats that are not independently affixed to the car. Safety experts recommend storing smaller objects, such as a sunglasses and phones, in the glove compartments.
The trunk of the car is the best place to store heavy items. If you do not have a trunk but have a cargo area, be sure to use cargo nets, anchors, and tethers to ensure that stored objects will not enter the passenger area during a crash.
Objects Become Dangerous Projectiles in Accidents
Many drivers would be surprised to learn that a 20 pound object can turn into 1,000 pounds of force in a car accident that occurs at 55 mph. In crash tests, that amount of force is enough to sever the arm of a crash test dummy. If you must carry heavy items in the passenger area of your car, the best way to do it is to make sure that the heavy objects fit securely.
Additionally, always be sure that pets and all people are fastened safely in the car since pets or people can become projectiles in a car accident as well. Before you start your car, make sure all objects, people, and pets are secure.
If you were in an accident that was caused by a negligent driver, make sure to contact an attorney right away. A lawyer will protect your rights and help you receive compensation.
Washington, D.C. Car Accident Lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King Help Victims of Distracted Driving Accidents
If you were in a car accident that involved loose objects or other distractions, we are here to assist you. Our Washington, D.C. car accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King provide legal guidance and assistance to car accident victims. Contact us online or call us at 202-331-1963 for a free consultation today.
Located in Washington, D.C., we serve clients throughout Prince George’s County, including Laurel, Beltsville, Adelphi, College Park, Greenbelt, Mitchellville, Woodmore, Greater Upper Marlboro, Springdale, Largo, Bowie, Capitol Heights, District Heights, Forestville, Suitland, and Seat Pleasant, Clinton, Oxon Hill, Temple Hills, and Fort Washington.