Philadelphia Seat Belt Injury Lawyer

Seat belts save lives by preventing ejection and reducing impact force, but they can also cause injuries during car accidents.

Common Causes of Seat Belt Injuries

Seat belt injuries occur in various accident scenarios, depending on how the crash affects the body. The most common causes include:

High-Speed Collisions

In high-speed crashes, seat belts tighten rapidly to restrain the body. Although the belt prevents more severe injuries, the intense pressure it exerts can lead to fractures and internal injuries.

Improper Seat Belt Use

Wearing a seat belt incorrectly increases the risk of injury. Placing the shoulder strap under the arm or behind the back prevents the seat belt from distributing impact forces evenly.

Defective Seat Belts

Some seat belts fail to lock on impact, while others may tighten excessively, increasing injury severity. In these cases, liability may fall on the manufacturer.

Liability in Seat Belt Injury Cases

Determining liability for a seat belt injury depends on the circumstances of the accident and the seatbelts performance. Potential responsible parties include:

Vehicle Manufacturer

If the seat belt failed due to a defect, the vehicle manufacturer could be held liable for producing a faulty safety system. Manufacturers must ensure that seat belts meet safety standards and function correctly during an accident.

Seat Belt Manufacturer

A separate manufacturer may produce seat belts independently of the vehicle. If the defect is related to the belt’s locking mechanism, webbing, or retraction system, the seat belt manufacturer could be responsible.

Vehicle Owner

Car owners must ensure that their seat belts remain in working condition. If they knowingly used a damaged or malfunctioning seat belt, they may share liability for any resulting injuries.

Passenger Responsibility

If a passenger wears a seat belt improperly—such as placing the strap behind their back—they may bear partial responsibility for their injuries.

Third-Party Liability

If a repair shop or dealership improperly installed or repaired a seat belt, they could be held liable for negligence if the belt fails during an accident. Similarly, if another driver’s negligence caused the crash, their insurance might be responsible for covering your injuries.

How a Lawyer Can Help with Seat Belt Injury Claims

If you suffered seat belt-related injuries in a car accident, a Philadelphia seat belt injury lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and seek fair compensation. Here is how legal representation can benefit your case:

Investigating the Accident

A Philadelphia seat belt injury attorney will gather evidence, including accident reports, witness statements, and medical records, to determine the cause of your injuries and identify responsible parties.

Proving Liability

Whether the seat belt malfunctioned, was improperly installed, or caused excessive harm, your lawyer will work to establish liability. If a manufacturer defect contributed to your injuries, they will build a case against the responsible company.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies

An experienced Philadelphia seat belt injury attorney will negotiate with insurers to secure a fair settlement.

Filing a Lawsuit if Necessary

If negotiations fail, your attorney can file a lawsuit to pursue compensation in court.

From chest trauma to spinal injuries, the force exerted by a seat belt can lead to significant medical issues. If a defect, improper use, or another party’s negligence contributed to your injury, you may have legal options. Speak with a trusted Philadelphia Car Accident Attorney in a free consultation for help understanding your rights.