Seatbelt injuries are a common yet often underestimated consequence of car accidents. While seatbelts are essential for saving lives and minimizing the severity of injuries, they can sometimes cause their own harm during a collision. When this happens, it’s essential to seek help from a Louisville personal injury lawyer to ensure your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and related losses. Some of the most common seatbelt injuries include the following:
- Abrasions and Bruises: The force exerted by seatbelts during a collision can cause skin abrasions and bruising across the chest, shoulders, and abdomen.
- Rib and Sternum Fractures: Severe impacts from seatbelt restraints may lead to fractures in the ribs or sternum, resulting in significant pain and reduced mobility.
- Neck and Head Injuries: Improper use or the sudden jerk of a seatbelt can cause neck strains, whiplash, or brain injuries, especially if the belt does not fit correctly.
- Abdominal Injuries: The lap belt can cause injuries to internal organs such as the liver, intestines, or kidneys, especially in high-impact collisions.
- Spinal Injuries: In a high-impact car crash, an improperly positioned seatbelt or one that is not securely fastened can result in serious spinal injuries, such as a Chance fracture. This type of injury happens when the sudden force drives the body sharply forward against the lap belt, putting significant stress on the spine.
Recognizing these common seatbelt injuries emphasizes the importance of proper seatbelt use and ensures that victims are aware of the potential injuries they may sustain, enabling them to pursue fair compensation through legal avenues. Speak to an accident attorney in Louisville for more information.
Liability in Seatbelt Accidents
Determining liability in seatbelt accidents can be complex. Understanding who could be held accountable is essential for pursuing fair compensation.
The Driver
If you were a passenger in a car where the driver acted carelessly or recklessly, they could be responsible for your injuries. Examples of reckless behavior might include speeding, running red lights, or failing to adjust to hazardous road conditions.
The Vehicle Manufacturer
Sometimes, the seatbelt itself could be defective. If the seatbelt fails to work properly during an accident – such as not locking in place or unlatching unexpectedly – the manufacturer of the car or the seatbelt may be held accountable. Products are supposed to be safe, and when they aren’t, the responsibility might fall on the company that made them.
Another Driver
Liability isn’t limited to the driver of the car you were in. If another driver caused the crash, their actions could make them responsible for your injuries. For example, this could include situations where they hit your vehicle due to distracted driving, running a stop sign, or other negligent behavior.
Rental Car Companies
When renting a vehicle, the rental company may be responsible if the seatbelt was not properly maintained or if the vehicle had defective safety features. Ensuring that rental cars are safe and compliant with safety standards is part of their duty.
By understanding who might be liable in a seatbelt accident, you can better prepare to pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.