If you get into a car accident in California, you could be at risk of a second accident happening immediately after. While the first collision may be relatively minor, the second collision might be more serious, especially if you’re moving at a higher speed.
What is a secondary collision?
A secondary collision is a second impact that occurs in an auto accident. When you’re in a collision, the impact you receive can cause you to lose control of your vehicle and then hit something else. You can also get hit by another vehicle that you weren’t initially involved with.
How dangerous are secondary collisions?
When you’re in a secondary collision, you can experience more serious injuries than you would otherwise. This is because you were already involved in an auto accident, and your body may not be able to handle another impact as well after that initial contact took place. For instance, you could have experienced whiplash during the first impact. While you may not feel it now, you can be at risk of neck or back injuries later on if you hit your head again during a secondary car accident.
How do you avoid the effects of secondary collisions?
The best way you can avoid serious injuries in a secondary collision is to wear your seat belt. Seat belts are some of the most important safety features you have in your vehicle, and it’s critical that you keep them fastened at all times.
Additionally, make sure you have a working post-collision braking system. This system activates automatically when you’re in an auto accident, and it’s designed to keep you from moving forward after the initial impact takes place. This technology can also help you avoid secondary collisions by making you stop if you’re not applying the brakes yourself.
Avoiding a secondary collision after you’ve already been in an auto accident is crucial for you to avoid serious injuries. Make sure to take advantage of in-vehicle technology, including seat belts, if you want to be as safe as possible during these types of accidents.
