Several studies have shown that women are more likely to get hurt in a car crash than men. Here are some reasons why women are more vulnerable behind the wheel and what they can do if they get into an accident in Mississippi.
Why are women more vulnerable in a crash?
- Women are generally smaller and have less muscle mass than men. This means that they are not as well-protected against injury in the event of a collision. In addition, because women typically weigh less than men, their bodies tend to move more when there is an impact.
- Women’s necks are weaker. A strong neck can absorb more of the whiplash force, lowering the risk of injuries. Since women’s necks are slightly weaker, they are more likely to get concussions or other brain injuries in motor vehicle accidents.
- Women are more often passengers than drivers. When someone doesn’t drive often, they may not be familiar with what to do to mitigate a dangerous situation on the road. Therefore, in an accident, their risk of getting hurt is increased.
- Women tend to prefer smaller, lighter cars that are easy to drive. Such cars often have weak bodies and can easily be crushed in a collision. This puts women drivers at a greater risk of injury than men.
Women can reduce their risk by taking defensive driving courses, wearing their seat belt and choosing a safe car. However, if you do get into an accident, be sure to file a claim as soon as you can.
What to do when you get into an accident in Mississippi
If you get into a car accident in Mississippi, you should file a claim with your insurance company to get funds for your medical bills and car damage. Additionally, since this is a fault state, you can file a claim against the driver responsible for the accident. If successful, you may get compensation for lost income while receiving treatment, payment for extra medical and rehabilitation bills, etc.
You can file with their insurance company and the civil court. However, you should note that Mississippi is a pure comparative negligence state, meaning your damages award will reduce by the percentage of your fault in the accident.
If you have been injured as a result of a car accident, you should consult with an experienced attorney who handles these specific types of cases.
