Seat belts have saved countless lives and are considered one of the most effective safety features in any vehicle. But even though seat belts protect you from being thrown from a car or colliding with the dashboard, they can also cause injuries of their own.
When a collision occurs, the sudden force exerted by a seat belt can lead to a unique set of injuries known as car accident seat belt injuries. These injuries can range from mild bruising to more severe, life-altering conditions such as internal organ damage or fractures.
Many people who suffer a car accident seat belt injury don’t even realize that they might have a right to compensation. They assume that because the seat belt was “doing its job,” the injury is just something they have to deal with. But if another driver caused the crash or if a defective seat belt or vehicle design contributed to your injuries, you may be entitled to file a personal injury claim. Our experienced Montgomery car accident lawyers can help you.
When Safety Devices Cause Harm: Understanding Seat Belt Trauma
During a high-impact crash, the seat belt must restrain the body with great force to prevent more severe injuries like ejection from the vehicle. This necessary force can lead to bruises, internal injuries, or fractures.
These injuries are often more pronounced if the seat belt does not fit correctly, perhaps riding too high or too low on the body, or if it’s worn too loosely. Children and small adults are particularly at risk if the seat belt does not fit them properly, potentially leading to more severe neck or abdominal injuries.
Design differences and manufacturing defects can also contribute to the risk and severity of injuries. For example, an older model car with outdated or worn seat belt technology might lack the tensioners and load limiters that newer models use to adjust during a crash.
Types of Injuries Caused by Seat Belts During a Crash
Seat belts are built to restrain your body during a crash, but that very function can lead to trauma, especially in high-impact collisions. Common seatbelt injuries include:
Soft Tissue Injuries
This includes bruising and abrasions where the belt holds the body against the seat. In severe crashes, the force exerted by a seat belt can lead to more significant soft tissue damage, such as deep contusions or damage to abdominal organs.
Rib and Sternum Fractures
The force of a seat belt during a crash can cause fractures to the ribs and sternum. These injuries are painful and can complicate the breathing process, posing additional risks, especially in elderly occupants.
Internal Injuries
The pressure from a seat belt can cause internal injuries, including to the intestines, liver, spleen, and kidneys. These injuries might not be immediately apparent but can be severe and life-threatening.
Spinal Injuries
While seat belts are intended to restrict movement during a crash, the force exerted can also lead to spinal injuries, ranging from mild strains to severe cases like fractures or dislocations of the vertebrae.
Neck and Shoulder Injuries
The shoulder strap of the seat belt can cause neck or shoulder injuries in a crash. Commonly known as “whiplash,” these injuries involve the soft tissues of the neck and shoulder and can vary in severity.
Facial Injuries
In some cases, especially if the seat belt does not fit properly or malfunctions, an occupant can be propelled forward enough to cause facial injuries against the steering wheel, dashboard, or windows.
Factors That Influence the Severity of Seat Belt Injuries
Not all seat belt injuries in car accidents happen the same way or with the same impact. Here are some factors that influence how severe a seatbelt injury might be:
1. Speed and Impact Force of the Collision
The speed at which a vehicle is traveling at the time of the crash affects the intensity of the impact. Higher speeds generally result in more severe injuries due to the greater force exerted on the body by the seat belt.
2. Type of Collision
The nature of the collision influences how the vehicle absorbs impact and the direction and force with which occupants are jolted. Each scenario poses unique risks for seat belt-related injuries.
3. Position in the Vehicle
The occupant’s position in the vehicle also matters. Front-seat passengers may experience different and potentially more severe injuries compared to those seated in the back, especially if airbag deployment is involved in the front.
4. Age and Physical Condition of the Occupant
Younger individuals and the elderly are more susceptible to severe injuries from seat belts due to differing body strength and resilience. Similarly, individuals with pre-existing conditions may find their injuries worsened by seat belt restraints in a crash.
5. Vehicle Safety Features
Modern cars are equipped with advanced safety features like airbags and seat belt pre-tensioners that can affect the outcome of crashes. However, these features must work correctly to mitigate injuries, malfunctions can instead increase the severity of seat belt injuries.
6. Seat and Seat Belt Design
The design and condition of the seat belt and the seat itself can influence injury outcomes. For example, worn or damaged seat belts may not provide adequate protection, and poorly designed seats may not support the body well during a crash.
Preventing Seat Belt Injuries Without Sacrificing Safety
Firstly, wear your seat belt the right way. The lap belt should go across your hips, not your stomach. The shoulder strap should cross the middle of your chest, not your neck or arm.
It’s also important to sit upright, as leaning or slouching can make injuries worse in a crash, and to adjust your seat and headrest. This helps your body stay in the safest position.
Next, make sure your seat belt fits well. If it feels too tight or too loose, adjust it. And ensure you check your seat belts often. Look for frayed straps or broken parts. If something looks wrong, get it fixed.
Finally, remember to use the right safety seat for kids. Children should be in a car seat or booster seat until they are big enough for a seat belt to fit properly.
Contact an Experienced Montgomery Car Accident Lawyer
If you’ve suffered a car accident seat belt injury, contact a car accident lawyer. An attorney can assess your situation, advise on the best course of action, and help you get compensation.
At Hunter | Everage, our experienced Montgomery car accident lawyers are here to help you understand your rights, build your case, and fight for the compensation you need. Whether your injury was caused by a reckless driver or a faulty restraint system, we’ll be your voice. Contact our accident lawyers at 704-377-9157 to request a free consultation.