In our daily lives, we often take for granted the safety features of our vehicles, particularly the humble seatbelt. At Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers, an injury law firm serving Comal County, Texas, we aim to highlight the critical role seatbelts play in safeguarding lives and preventing severe injuries during auto accidents. This article delves into the risks associated with not wearing seatbelts and the wide range of injuries that can result from such occurrences.
The Role of Seatbelts in Auto Accidents
Seatbelts restrain occupants during auto collisions, minimizing the impact of the crash on their bodies. These safety devices absorb and distribute the forces of impact, prevent ejection from the vehicle, and keep passengers securely in their seats. Despite their proven effectiveness, many people neglect to use seatbelts, which exposes them to a greater risk of injury in car crashes.
Injuries Associated with Not Wearing a Seatbelt
Boerne car accident attorneys often explain to injured persons that when seatbelts are not worn, the potential for serious motor vehicular injury significantly increases. Here are some common and severe injuries that can occur in automobile wrecks without the protection of a seatbelt:
- Head Injuries: The risk of head injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and concussions, is significantly higher when seatbelts are not used. Car accident lawyers frequently state that without a seatbelt, occupants are more likely to suffer blunt force trauma to the head from striking the steering wheel, dashboard, or windshield.
- Spinal and Back Injuries: The force of an automobile collision can cause severe spinal injuries, including herniated discs, cervical radiculopathy (nerve root pain in the neck), and chronic pain. Without the restraint of a seatbelt, individuals are more susceptible to these severe back injuries and may face long-term consequences.
- Chest and Abdominal Injuries: In the event of a crash, not wearing a seatbelt increases the risk of chest injuries such as broken ribs, rib fractures, and bruising. Internal bleeding and damage to vital organs, such as the liver or spleen, can also occur, potentially leading to life-threatening conditions.
- Bone Fractures and Joint Injuries: The force of a car wreck can result in broken bones, including fractures of the arms, legs, and pelvis. Dislocated shoulders, knee injuries, torn ligaments, rotator cuff tears, and sprains are common joint injuries resulting from not being restrained during a collision.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: The impact from a car collision can cause various soft tissue injuries, such as abrasions, lacerations, scrapes, and contusions. These injuries, while often less severe than fractures, can still lead to significant pain and suffering.
- Burns and Scalds: In severe auto wrecks, especially those involving fire or explosions, car crash lawyers frequently observe that passengers not wearing seatbelts are at a higher risk of suffering from burns and scalds. These injuries can cause permanent damage and require extensive medical treatment.
- Whiplash Injuries: A common injury in car crashes, whiplash occurs when the head is abruptly jolted forward and backward. Without the support of a seatbelt, whiplash injuries can result in neck pain, cognitive impairments, and chronic pain.
- Facial Injuries: The impact of a motor vehicle accident can cause significant facial injuries, including jaw fractures, jaw pain, and injuries to the eyes and teeth. Facial injuries can lead to long-term aesthetic and functional issues.
- Nerve Damage: Severe impacts can lead to nerve damage, resulting in conditions such as numbness, tingling, and loss of function in affected areas.
The Devastating Effects of Being Ejected from the Vehicle
Boerne accident lawyers emphasize that one of the most severe consequences of not wearing a seatbelt is the risk of being ejected from the vehicle during a motor vehicle crash. Ejection significantly increases the likelihood of catastrophic injuries and death. Here’s why being thrown from a vehicle is so dangerous:
Increased Exposure to Impact
When a vehicle crashes, the forces of the impact are intense. Vehicle collision lawyers state that without the protection of a seatbelt, occupants are likely to be thrown through windows or doors, exposing themselves to the full force of the collision outside the vehicle. This exposure can lead to severe blunt force trauma, which often results in life-threatening injuries.
Higher Risk of Fatal Injuries
Ejected persons are at a much higher risk of fatal injuries compared to those who remain inside the vehicle. The impact with the ground or other objects, such as trees, poles, or other vehicles, can cause fatal head injuries, spinal cord damage, and internal bleeding. These injuries often result in death or severe, permanent disabilities.
Legal and Insurance Implications
From a legal standpoint, the failure to wear a seatbelt can significantly impact personal injury claims. In Texas, wearing a seatbelt is not only a safety requirement but also a factor that courts and insurance companies consider when determining fault and settlement value. Not using a seatbelt can affect the amount of monetary damages awarded or affect the overall outcome of the injury case.
At Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers, our Boerne vehicle collision lawyers emphasize the importance of wearing seatbelts to prevent severe injuries and fatalities in auto accidents. While seatbelts are a simple feature, their effectiveness in protecting lives during car crashes cannot be overstated. By making seatbelt use a priority, you can greatly reduce the risk of severe injuries, such as those discussed above, and ensure a higher level of safety for yourself and your loved ones. If you or someone you know has been involved in a car accident and suffered injuries in Boerne, Texas, call us today at (956) 225-2509 for a free consultation. Our car wreck lawyers can discuss your options and assist with your insurance claim.