In the chaotic aftermath of a car accident, broken glass emerges as a silent but potent threat, capable of causing severe injuries that extend far beyond the initial impact. The shattering of glass, whether from the windshield, windows, or mirrors, introduces a dangerous element that can lead to lacerations, abrasions, and even life-threatening injuries. Understanding the risks associated with broken glass in car accidents is crucial for drivers and passengers, as it can influence safety measures and emergency responses. If you have suffered an injury, contact a Virginia Beach car accident attorney to find out what legal options you have against the responsible party.
Shattered Fragments
In the physics of a collision, the forces involved in the crash can transform the vehicle’s once-intact windows into a shower of glass fragments. These shattered pieces, often small and sharp, can become lethal projectiles inside the car. The sheer velocity and unpredictability of these fragments increase the likelihood of occupants sustaining injuries, ranging from superficial cuts to more severe wounds that may require immediate medical attention.
Lacerations and Abrasions
One of the most immediate dangers of broken glass in a car accident is the risk of lacerations and abrasions. The human body is vulnerable to the sharp edges of glass fragments, and even with the protection of seat belts and airbags, occupants can find themselves near shattered windows. As the vehicle comes to a sudden stop or changes direction, shattered glass can spray over occupants, leading to cuts and abrasions.
Airbags and Broken Glass
While airbags are designed to mitigate the impact of a collision, they can also contribute to spraying broken glass throughout the vehicle interior. The forceful deployment of an airbag may propel glass fragments into the cabin, increasing the risk of injuries to the occupants’ face, hands, and upper body. In some cases, the combination of the airbag and broken glass can create a more complex and dangerous scenario for those involved in the accident.
Eye Injuries and Vision Impairment
The eyes are particularly susceptible to injury from broken glass in a car accident. Glass fragments can penetrate the eye, causing damage to the cornea, retina, or other vital structures. The mere presence of shattered glass in the immediate surroundings can result in temporary or permanent vision impairment. These injuries can impact the individual’s immediate well-being and have long-term consequences for their quality of life.
Pursuing Damages
If a negligent driver or other party caused the car accident, victims can pursue legal action against the driver for damages their injuries have caused them. These damages fall into two categories – economic and non-economic.
Economic damages encompass the tangible financial losses incurred because of the accident. This includes medical expenses, both past and future, covering costs for hospitalization, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation. Lost wages, both current and potential future earnings affected by the injury, can be part of economic damages. Additionally, expenses related to necessary modifications to the injured person’s home or vehicle due to their injuries may be considered.
Non-economic damages are more subjective and cover intangible losses. These include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and a reduced quality of life resulting from the accident.
In some cases, punitive damages might be awarded. These are intended to punish the at-fault party for particularly egregious conduct and deter similar behavior. However, punitive damages are not always available and depend on the case’s specific circumstances.
Contact Our Personal Injury Law Firm Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, contact a Virginia Beach car accident lawyer from Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp. Our firm is dedicated to helping injured clients obtain the compensation they deserve for their medical bills, lost income, and other losses their injuries have caused. Our attorneys will work diligently to make sure you get the financial justice the law allows, like the $235,000 car accident insurance settlement we obtained for one client who suffered multiple injuries when another driver failed to yield the right of way.
For your convenience, we have offices in Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Hampton, Portsmouth, and Chesapeake.