I’ve Heard That Wearing A Seatbelt Can Cause Worse Injuries Than Not Wearing One. Is That True?

We have represented many New Orleans residents who suffered serious injuries in car accidents. While seatbelts may cause injuries, the damage we have seen inflicted on our clients by seatbelts is usually minor compared to the injuries suffered by unbelted occupants.

Our observations are supported by studies conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In 2001, the NHTSA analyzed the role of seatbelts in all fatal crashes that year. They found that 73% of people wearing seatbelts survived, compared to only 44% of those not wearing seatbelts.

Perhaps even more telling was their finding in a separate study that three out of four people ejected from a vehicle during a crash die. Of the people ejected, 99% of them were not wearing a seatbelt.

Some people don’t wear seatbelts because they have heard stories of people being choked by the belt or falling out of the vehicle and being dragged. While these incidents do happen, they are rare. In our experience, most injuries caused by seatbelts are limited to shoulder injuries and abrasions from the belt. In contrast, striking the dashboard or being thrown from the vehicle can cause much more devastating results.

Having helped many car accident victims, we know that no amount of financial compensation can replace your health. We urge everyone to wear seatbelts. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a car accident, please feel free to call us at (504) 527-8767.