What Is Seat Belt Syndrome?

In certain circumstances, things that protect people can end up hurting them. Seat belt syndrome is an example of this and affects some car accident survivors. This does not mean that seat belts should not be worn, but it is essential to recognize the symptoms of this condition. Seat belt syndrome can happen when the pressure from the belt compresses the person’s body with too much force.

The CDC reported that more than half of motor vehicle accident survivors’ lives had been saved by seat belts. It is estimated that proper seat belt use prevents about 15,000 fatalities yearly. Seat belt syndrome can be severe, but the benefits outweigh the dangers.

Having a medical exam after a car accident is essential because the naked eye cannot see many injuries, and some symptoms do not show up for hours or days afterward. Some more obvious seat belt syndrome symptoms include abrasions and bruises on the skin in the same places where the seat belt was secured. These are generally seen across the abdomen and waist and from the hip to shoulder at a 45-degree angle.

It has been shown that up to 30 percent of car accident survivors in hospital emergency rooms have some form of seat belt syndrome. The most serious conditions associated with this include heart, lung, stomach, intestines, bladder, lungs, and spinal cord injuries. Besides significant pain, sufferers might also experience vomiting, blood in the stool, leg weakness, and difficulty breathing.

Can I Claim Seat Belt Syndrome in a Car Accident Case?

Seat belt syndrome can be claimed as a car accident injury. If the auto insurance provider denies the claim or limits the benefits, a car accident lawyer may be able to help.

There might also be an option to sue the other driver. The amount of compensation depends on several factors, like the extent of the injuries, whether or not the other driver acted negligently, and if the court finds that you were partly responsible for the crash.

An Edwardsville Car Accident Lawyer at The Cates Law Firm Can Provide Trusted Legal Guidance if You Have Seat Belt Syndrome

If you are experiencing seat belt syndrome from a serious car accident, contact a skilled Edwardsville car accident lawyer at The Cates Law Firm. Complete our online form or call us at 618-277-3644 to schedule a free consultation. Located in Swansea, Illinois, we serve clients in St. Louis, Belleville, East St. Louis, Edwardsville, Granite City, Waterloo, Chester, Carbondale, St. Clair County, Madison County, Monroe County, Randolph County, and other regions throughout Southern Illinois.