Understanding Seatbelt Losses

Unfortunately, not all seatbelts and vehicle restraint systems are created equal. When a restraint system fails during an accident, victims can be injured much more seriously than they would otherwise have been. Some defective seatbelts can be the main cause massive injuries.

Common defects include:

• Excessive slack in shoulder belts, including shoulder belts that don’t lock in a collision
• Buckles whose latches are placed in a way that guarantees that they’ll unlatch in an accident
• Seatbelts not properly attached
• Broken seatbelt buckles that may “false latch” or fail in an accident
• Door-mounted automatic belts that put the force of an accident on an occupant’s neck, causing decapitation, spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Lap-only seatbelts made after 1967, when they were found to be less safe than three-point restraints

Many of these seat belt defects have been well known to auto manufacturers for years, but ignored simply because it would cost more to install a higher-quality seatbelt. As a result, hundreds of people have suffered preventable deaths and serious injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spine injuries, permanent disability and amputation. In our opinion drivers should be able to trust their seat belts -- and those who manufacture them. When that trust is betrayed, families are devastated and lives are permanently affected.

If you or someone you love has been involved in an accident that was caused or worsened by a defective seatbelt, you have the right to pursue compensation in a court of law, including compensation for your medical bills, pain and suffering and a lifetime of lost future income. For a free, no-obligation consultation call us at 800-862-1260.

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