A recent study at Harborview Injury Prevention and Research Center found that drivers with a body mass index (BMI) of 35 to 39 were two times likely to die in car accidents, as compared to those with BMI of 20. A BMI of 30 is considered obese. Obese drivers are more likely to die in accidents for three reasons. First, seatbelts may not be effective for obese drivers. Fat acts as like air, and can either (1) create a gap that allows the driver to slide from behind the belt in a rollover accicent, or (2) force the belt to snap back through the gap, hitting internal organs. Second, rescuers may have a more difficult time getting them out from the cars. Third, recovery is often more difficult for obese individuals who suffer injuries as a result of an accident.
A number of factors cause automobile accidents to affect people differently. Senior citizens and women are also at increased risk. No matter what factors may apply to you as a driver, you should contact a personal injury attorney if you are injured in an accident.
For more information, please see: Obesity adds to risk of dying in car crash
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