When a car crash occurs, the body experiences a rapid deceleration, causing the head to move forward at the same velocity as the vehicle. This sudden deceleration generates significant biomechanical forces upon impact. One of the key principles involved is the impulse-momentum relationship. Impulse is the product of force and the duration over which it acts. During a collision, the head rapidly decelerates upon striking the steering wheel, creating a large impulse over a very short period, resulting in substantial force.

The head's momentum, combined with the neck's flexibility, often causes a rapid motion forward, leading to potential injuries. Strain or sprain in the neck muscles and ligaments is common in such scenarios. Severe cases might involve fractures, concussions, or traumatic brain injuries due to the force of impact and subsequent head acceleration. The distribution of force also plays a critical role. The limited surface area of the steering wheel means that the impact force is concentrated, which can result in significant injuries like facial fractures, dental injuries, or internal head injuries.

Additionally, inside the skull, the brain can collide with the bony structures, resulting in contusions or hematomas. This can lead to further complications such as a contrecoup injury, where the brain experiences a secondary impact as it rebounds within the skull. Modern vehicles are equipped with safety features designed to mitigate these forces, such as airbags and energy-absorbing steering columns. These features aim to increase the time over which the head decelerates, thereby reducing the impulse and minimizing injuries.

If you hit your head on the steering wheel in a car accident in Missouri, you should keep the following in mind:

Potential Injuries

A head injury from a steering wheel can range from minor to severe, depending on the force of the impact and other factors. Here are some possible injuries:

• Concussion: This is the most common type of head injury, and symptoms can include headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and memory problems.
• Scalp Lacerations: Cuts on the scalp can bleed and require stitches to close.
• Facial Fractures: The impact can fracture bones in your face, such as your nose or jaw.
• Neck Injuries: The sudden movement of your head can strain or sprain muscles in your neck.
• More Serious Injuries: In severe cases, head trauma can lead to bleeding in the brain, blood clots, or even coma.

What to Do After a Head Injury

If you hit your head on the steering wheel in a car accident, here are the steps you should take:

• Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don't feel any symptoms immediately, it's crucial to see a doctor to get checked for potential injuries. Some head injuries might not show symptoms right away.
• Report the Accident: File a police report to document the accident. This will be helpful if you need to file an insurance claim or lawsuit later.
• Keep Records: Maintain copies of all medical bills and records related to your head injury.

Missouri Law and Head Injuries

Missouri doesn't have a specific law regarding head injuries from car accidents. However, personal injury laws apply. If another driver's negligence caused the accident and your head injury, you might be able to file a lawsuit to recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Consulting a Personal Injury Lawyer

An experienced personal injury lawyer in Missouri can advise you on your legal options after a car accident where you sustained a head injury. They can:

• Investigate the accident and determine fault.
• Help you gather evidence to support your case.
• Negotiate with insurance companies to obtain fair compensation for your injuries.
• Represent you in court if necessary.

Here are some additional resources that you might find helpful:

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Concussions: https://www.cdc.gov/headsup/index.html
• The Missouri Bar Association: https://mobar.org/

Remember, this information is not a substitute for professional medical or legal advice. If you have any questions or concerns about a head injury from a car accident, consult with a doctor and a lawyer in Missouri.