FL Collisions and Seatbelt Injuries
Collisions on Florida roads are an unfortunate reality, and some of these traffic accidents result in severe injuries. One key safety feature that can reduce the severity of injuries is wearing a seatbelt, but while clicking your belt is an important habit when driving around Delray Beach, Deerfield Beach, and the surrounding area, there are situations where individuals sustain belt injuries during the course of a collision.
When recovering from seat belt-related injuries due to a Florida collision, talk to a Boca Raton auto accident lawyer about your damage recovery options. Some recovery is likely possible through your personal injury protection (PIP) coverage, but if another was negligent you may need to take legal action in order to secure an amount that covers all of your injury expenses.
The Importance of Safety Belt Usage
Wearing a seatbelt is one of the easiest things you can do to effectively protect yourself in the event of a car accident. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), tens of thousands of US lives are saved each year because of seatbelt use.
Proper safety belt usage can do one or more of the following in the event of a traffic accident.
- Prevent ejection. Safety belts keep occupants firmly inside the vehicle, reducing the risk of being ejected from a vehicle which is a leading cause of serious injuries and fatalities.
- Distribute forces of impact. Belts are designed so the force of impact is subjected to stronger parts of the body, such as the chest and pelvis, minimizing harm to vulnerable areas.
- Reduce injuries. By restraining occupants during a collision, individuals striking hard surfaces within the vehicle or other occupants can be avoided.
While seatbelts protect vehicle occupants, there are also situations in which they can cause injuries. This is especially true if they are not worn correctly or if the belt itself is defective in some way.
For example, the force of an accident can lead to a seatbelt injuring the soft tissues of the chest, abdomen, or shoulders. Or the impact of a collision can lead to rib fractures or other torso injuries due to the pressure exerted by the seat belt. And in severe collisions, the force of the seat belt can cause internal injuries, such as organ damage or internal bleeding.
Personal Injury Lawyers and Seat Belt Injuries
After a collision resulting in seat belt injuries, consult with a Boca Raton auto accident lawyer to protect your rights and seek fair compensation. Legal experts can explain your rights and advise you on possible courses of action. Then, if you choose to move forward with a claim or case, your lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation into the accident, gather evidence, examine the seatbelt’s condition, and identify any potential liability factors so it can be determined who to hold accountable for your injury expenses.
Do you have questions about how to secure competition for seat belt-related injuries? Talk to the seasoned car accident attorneys at Leifer & Ramirez. Book your fee-free consultation today, call 561-660-9421.
