According to a University of Laval study, morbidly obese drivers have a higher risk of being in a car accident because of health issues caused by their weight. Researchers in the study examined data from 75 medical studies to reach their conclusion. The researchers also concluded that obese passengers and drivers involved in a car accident may have a higher risk of fatalities and serious injuries, in part because car safety features are designed for a standard-sized person and may not work as well for someone who is larger than average.
Since Miami sees its fair share of obesity patients, Miami car accidents and injuries caused by weight issues are a concern in the city. Of course, medical-related Miami traffic accidents can occur to any driver in any age range or weight range group. However, it is also true that obese drivers may be prone to medical risks. Obese drivers, for example, may be more at risk of sleep apnea, a sleep disorder which can cause fatigued driving and drowsiness behind the wheel. Obese drivers may also be at an increased risk for heart attacks, strokes, diabetes, and other chronic conditions which come with dangerous complications. When these complications occur behind the wheel, a medical emergency and car accident are the likely result. If a driver has a stroke or heart attack while driving, for example, they will likely be involved in a Miami pedestrian accident or car accident when they lose control of the vehicle.
Another problem is that obese drivers may be more at risk of injuries in a Miami traffic accident. Seat belts, air bags, and other safety systems in cars are designed for specific body sizes. There has already been research done to show that those who are below average height, for example, can actually be harmed by a seat belt or air bag in the event of a car collision. In the same manner, obese drivers and passengers may actually be more prone to injury in the event of a crash because their bodies are not the size that car manufacturers consider when creating seat belts and other safety systems. As a result, seat belts may cut into the body and other problems may occur in the event of an accident, leading to injury.
It is difficult to know how to make drivers in all weight categories safer behind the wheel. In the long term, one obvious solution is to create cars designed for different-sized drivers or to create more adaptable safety systems – ones that can be adjusted to optimally protect drivers of all heights and weights. In the meantime, drivers can take charge by staying as healthy as possible and by visiting their doctor regularly to deal with any health issues which can affect driving ability. If a driver is diagnosed with a serious illness, such as a heart condition or diabetes, it is important for that driver to manage their condition and to follow doctor’s recommendations regarding driving and any other activity.
If you have been injured in a Miami car accident, contact the Flaxman Law Group. The staff at the Flaxman Law Group can arrange a free, no obligation consultation so that you can discuss your case with an experienced personal injury attorney.