The Dangers of Loose Items in Your Car During an Accident

Colburn Law

Posted in Car Accidents on July 13, 2023

Many of us are guilty of using our cars as secondary storage units. Old coffee cups nestled in the cup holders, a stash of clothes in the backseat for unexpected weather changes, spare change scattered around, or even tools and equipment kept for roadside emergencies are common sights in Washington vehicles. 

While these items might seem like harmless clutter, these unsecured objects can pose significant risks in the event of a car accident. It is vital to understand the dangers that loose items can present and take steps to minimize clutter.

Loose Items Can Cause Serious Injuries in a Crash

During an accident, unsecured items in your vehicle can suddenly turn into dangerous projectiles. Depending on the speed and force of the crash, loose items such as cell phones, purses, bottles, umbrellas, or tools can strike with a force multiple times their weight. 

In severe cases, these can cause serious injuries, such as:

• Concussions
• Penetrating brain injuries
• Broken bones and fractures
• Cuts and lacerations
• Abdominal injuries
• Spinal cord damage
• Eye injuries
• Internal bleeding
• Bruises and contusions

Additionally, loose items may obstruct the driver’s control or interfere with safety features like airbags. This can increase the likelihood of injuries and the severity of the crash.

How to Prevent Injury from Items in Your Car

To prevent harm from loose items during an accident, it is important to be proactive about what you keep in your car. Keep only essential items and clean your car regularly to prevent objects from accumulating. Ensure all objects are stowed safely in compartments, glove boxes, or trunks. Use the seat pockets for lighter items and avoid placing heavy objects on the parcel shelf.

You can make good use of storage equipment designed for cars, such as cargo nets, organizers, and compartments. Such tools can help secure loose items, especially on long journeys or trips requiring more cargo. 

Finally, ensure that all items are safely stored and secured before you set off. This simple step only takes a few minutes at most, but it can significantly enhance your safety in the event of an accident.

Recovering Compensation for a Car Accident in Washington State

If you’re injured in a car accident, it’s essential to understand your legal rights and options. The personal injury lawyers at Colburn Law are here to help. Washington is a fault state, which means that the person responsible for causing the car accident is also responsible for any resulting harm or damages. This also means you have the right to pursue legal action if another driver was responsible.

Regardless of whether loose objects caused some of your injuries, you can still recover compensation for all damages you suffered in the crash. This includes but is not limited to medical expenses, loss of income, property damage, and non-economic damages such as emotional distress and chronic pain.

Pursuing an insurance claim or lawsuit after a car accident can be a challenging process, which is why hiring an attorney is essential. A Washington car accident lawyer can guide you through each stage of your claim and advocate for your right to maximum compensation. After receiving treatment for your injuries, schedule a free legal consultation to take your first steps toward justice.