What is a Seat Belt Injury?
While seat belts are a crucial safety measure, reducing the risk of death in vehicle crashes by about half, they can occasionally cause injuries during accidents. These injuries, often referred to as ‘seat belt injuries,’ vary in severity and can affect different parts of the body depending on the nature of the accident, the type of seat belt, and the position of the wearer.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident and are experiencing discomfort or pain from seat belt-related injuries, you should consult our car accident attorneys at the law firm of Cantor Grana Buckner Bucci. Our team can help you pursue a claim for your damages and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.
How Does a Seat Belt Injury and Bruising Happen?
Seat belt injuries, including bruising, typically occur during high-impact collisions when the force exerted onto the body by the seat belt exceeds the body’s resistance capacity. The sudden deceleration can cause the body to be thrown forward, and the seat belt, working as a restraint, applies a significant amount of force to specific areas, such as the chest, abdomen, and shoulder. This force is necessary to prevent the individual from being ejected from the vehicle or hitting the interior of the car, but can also result in injuries. Bruising occurs when this force causes blood vessels under the skin to rupture, while more severe injuries can happen if the force impacts internal organs. The nature and severity of these injuries can also be influenced by factors such as the angle of collision, the speed at which the accident happened, and the position of the seat belt on the body.
Bruising From a Seat Belt After Car Accidents
In a car accident, your body remains in a relatively fixed position during impact due to the restraining action of the seat belt. This scenario can lead to a set of injuries collectively referred to as “seat belt syndrome.” These injuries primarily affect the areas of your body where the seat belt makes contact, namely the neck, chest, and stomach.
Symptoms of seat belt syndrome injuries may include:
- Bruising or redness on the areas where the seat belt makes contact
- Pain, discomfort, and tenderness in these same areas
- Fractures of the ribs and sternum
- Seat belt marks on your stomach
- A hematoma
If you experience any of these symptoms following a car accident, it’s essential to consult a medical professional immediately. Even if the injuries seem minor, they can worsen over time if left untreated. A seat belt bruise is not a regular bruise. It can be a sign of internal bleeding, which can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly. Seeking medical attention immediately after an accident that caused seat belt bruises and injuries can also provide valuable evidence for your personal injury claim.
Common Seat Belt Injuries
Abdominal Injuries
The lower strap of the seat belt can cause injuries to the abdominal area during high-impact collisions. These might include internal bleeding or damage to internal organs. Internal injuries are particularly dangerous as they may not be immediately apparent, so always seek medical attention after a car accident.
Chest Injuries
The chest can sustain injuries from the upper strap of the seat belt. These injuries might include fractures to the ribs or sternum or bruising of the chest area.
Neck and Shoulder Injuries
The seat belt can cause injuries to the neck and shoulder area, potentially leading to whiplash, shoulder dislocation, or soft tissue damage.
Skin Abrasions
Seat belts can often cause superficial injuries to the skin, such as abrasions or “seat belt burns.”
Soft Tissue Injuries
The sudden force of a seat belt can also cause damage to soft tissues, such as muscles, tendons, and ligaments. This can result in sprains, strains, or tears.
Seat Belt Syndrome
This refers to a collection of injuries that are specific to the use of seat belts, including injury to the intestine and abdominal wall, fractures, and spinal injuries. It is often identified by a pattern of skin bruising over the areas of the body in contact with the seat belt.
Spinal Cord Injuries
In severe cases, the impact can transfer to the spine, resulting in spinal cord injuries. These injuries can cause temporary or permanent paralysis and other neurological issues.
The “Seat Belt Sign”
The “seat belt sign” is a term used by medical professionals to describe bruising or abrasions that appear on the body after a car accident. It indicates that the person was wearing a seat belt during the collision, often seen on the chest and abdomen where the seat belt contacts the body. The presence of a seat belt sign can indicate potential internal injuries, including organ damage, fractures, or spinal injuries. Seek immediate medical attention if you have a seat belt sign. It is also important for legal purposes and personal injury claims. Document the seat belt sign with pictures and seek medical attention to establish a record of the injuries.
Preventing Seat Belt Injuries
While seat belts are an essential vehicle safety feature, proper usage is crucial to minimizing the risk of injuries. Here are several steps you can take to prevent seat belt injuries:
Proper Positioning: Ensure the seat belt is positioned correctly across your body. The lap belt should be over your hips, not your stomach. The shoulder strap should cross the middle of your chest and shoulder, not cut across your neck or face.
Proper Fit: Adjust your seat and seat belt to ensure it fits snugly but not too tightly against your body. There should be enough room to slide a hand between your body and the belt.
Wear Seat Belts Correctly: Always wear both the lap and shoulder belts. Each serves a unique role in preventing injuries during a crash.
Use of Seat Belt Adjuster or Booster Seat for Children: Children are at a higher risk of seat belt injuries due to their size. Use a booster seat or seat belt adjuster to ensure the belt fits correctly across the body.
Regular Inspection: Regularly inspect your seat belt for any signs of wear and tear. Frayed or torn seat belts may not provide adequate protection in a crash.
Remember, a well-adjusted seat belt can significantly reduce the risk of serious injury or death in a motor vehicle accident. However, even with the best precautions, accidents can still occur. If you are injured in a collision, seek immediate medical attention and consider consulting with a personal injury attorney to understand your rights.
Can You File a Personal Injury Claim For a Seat Belt Injury?
You may be able to file a personal injury claim for a seat belt injury after a car accident. If another driver’s negligence caused the accident, you can hold them responsible for your injuries, including those caused by the seat belt. A successful personal injury claim can help cover costs such as medical bills, loss of earnings, pain and suffering, and other related expenses.
To determine whether you have a case, you should consult with our top-rated personal injury lawyers at Cantor Grana Buckner Bucci, who can review the details of your accident and injuries. We can advise you on the legal options available to seek compensation for your seat belt injury.
What Compensation is Available?
The compensation available for a seat belt injury depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the impact it has on your daily life, and any long-term effects. Generally, you may be able to recover damages for:
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Inconvenience
Our Attorneys Are Here to Help
Wearing seat belts is a necessary and effective way to reduce the risk of serious injuries in motor vehicle accidents. However, seat belts can also cause serious injuries in certain situations. If you have sustained a seat belt injury due to someone else’s negligence or a defective seat belt, our personal injury attorneys are here to help. We will fight for your rights and seek full compensation for your damages.
At Cantor Grana Buckner Bucci, our attorneys have a deep understanding of the law and can navigate the complexities of the legal system on your behalf. Our team will help gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, represent you in court to ensure you receive the compensation you rightfully deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation and pursue the justice you deserve.
