A few months ago, actor Eugenio Derbez (Coda) sustained more than 10 fractures after falling while wearing virtual reality goggles. His mind could not process the fact his fall was at a shorter distance than what the images showed. Because of the damage to his arm, he had to undergo surgery with a specialist, and a need for a shoulder replacement was a possibility.
Accidents caused by virtual reality games are becoming more frequent every day. Because of its immersive experience, virtual reality disconnects you from the real world and increases the possibility of accidents, from small stumbles to serious accidents as serious as Derbez’s.
How can you break a bone in a virtual game?
The Mexican actor made a live video on his Instagram account to tell his fans what happened: The virtual reality goggles made him think he was standing on a small board, on top of a 100-story building.
Derbez explained that he tripped over something on the floor. At that moment, the virtual reality made him think he was falling into the void. His reality and surroundings did not match what he saw and what his brain registered, then he tripped over some steps in the room.
“I can’t describe the pain I felt, I was screaming like crazy and they decided to anesthetize me,” Derbez said.
“When I fell, I heard like dry branches breaking, I immediately knew I had a multiple fracture.”
Some people are saying goodbye to virtual reality
The Mexican actor has not been the only celebrity to talk about incidents with virtual reality. British singer and songwriter Liam Gallagher said in an interview in early 2022 that he almost had an accident with his virtual reality headset, which could have ended very badly.
“I’m in The Simpsons thing, you’re in The Simpsons shop selling people food and stuff, and all of a sudden, I’ve got right into it and there’s a counter and I’ve leant on the counter to have a little chat with a dude, and I’ve stacked it.” Gallagher said. “Nearly smashed my face in again on the island. Gene grabbed me (his son). I’ve ended up in the fridge.”
“It’s no good. I’ve had to pack it in,” Gallagher said.
The growth of VR-related accidents
Home accidents related to virtual reality increased 31 percent in 2021, also during the last five years, claims related to home accidents due to virtual reality grew 68 percent, according to a study conducted by Aviva, a UK insurance company.
Meanwhile, the companies that develop these glasses have been making some recommendations to prevent accidents. They know that all these images can look very real and immerse the player in a different world, so shattered TV sets, broken bones and blows with objects are not uncommon.
Avoid VR glasses or look for alternatives?
The Metaverse is the future of the internet according to Mark Zuckerberg. So perhaps, in the future, most meeting rooms and other interactions between people will be virtual.
You can stay away if you choose to, as with any technological development. But you can also learn to use it without it posing a danger to you. Remember, it’s not the first adaptation we’ve had to make in the last few decades.
Tips for using virtual reality headsets
Establish an obstacle-free play area: Clear the space where you will play, avoid being near tables, stairs and other objects that you can trip over.
Human and pet free zone: When you move around you can bump into other people, so establish rules with your friends and family to avoid hurting yourself or them. Also don’t forget to take your pets out of the room, they could knock you off balance.
Sit down: Some companies recommend that you remain seated to avoid putting yourself at risk. This way you won’t have to move around the room. This is a good option as well if you find it difficult to keep your balance in other activities.
Protect your head: You should include the space above your head when clearing the room.
Reduce your time: Continuous use of VR glasses can cause dizziness and nausea, so limit play times to avoid feeling sick or losing your balance due to dizziness.
Your responsibility: Don’t forget that keeping the play area safe is your job.
Images: Christine Sandu and Jessica Lewis