We utilize our hands for nearly everything we do, including driving. During an accident, it’s natural to try and protect your head, and your hands are best placed to do this. Or, perhaps you gripped on tightly to the steering wheel to brace yourself for the impact? In any event, your hands are exposed during a crash and they can be quite sensitive.
Outlined below are some of the more common hand injuries that are suffered during road traffic collisions.
Ligament injuries
The hands comprise a network of tendons and ligaments that facilitate their movement. During a collision, these areas can be stretched, bruised and torn, causing severe pain to the individual.
The treatment required to recover can vary depending on the extent of the injury. In the most severe cases, multiple surgeries are required to make sure that the hands are fully operational again. As with any form of surgery, there are no guarantees and it may be impossible to repair severe damage.
Dislocations
There are multiple joints in your hands, most notably the knuckles. These are vulnerable during a collision, particularly if you have gripped onto the steering wheel to brace yourself for impact.
When placed under immense pressure, these joints can dislocate and cause a person significant discomfort. Again, the recovery period and restorative medical treatments will vary based on the extent of the initial injuries.
Fractures
There are just under 30 bones in the hand altogether. Some of these are larger but there are also intricate bones that can fracture during a crash. Broken hands are notoriously painful and this type of injury will usually put you out of action for a month or two.
If your hands have been injured because of someone else’s negligent driving, then you may be entitled to financial compensation. Seeking legal guidance will give you the best possible chance of obtaining this.