Seatbelts and airbags are essential safety features in modern vehicles, designed to protect occupants during collisions by reducing the risk of severe injury or death. These devices have saved countless lives and are crucial components of vehicular safety systems. However, it is important to acknowledge that while seatbelts and airbags are engineered to enhance safety, they can also cause injuries in certain scenarios. Understanding these issues helps victims seek appropriate recourse.

Common Injuries Caused by Seatbelts

While seatbelts are indispensable in preventing life-threatening injuries during accidents, they can sometimes cause specific injuries due to the force of impact. Common injuries include:

• Chest injuries: The force of a collision can cause the seatbelt to leave bruising or fractures to the sternum and ribs.

• Neck injuries: Whiplash or soft tissue damage can occur due to the abrupt restraint of the body.

• Shoulder injuries: The shoulder harness can cause strain or tears to the shoulder muscles and ligaments.

• Skin abrasions: The friction from the seatbelt can lead to cuts and bruises on the chest and neck areas.

• Internal injuries: In rare cases, the seatbelt can cause internal organ damage or bleeding due to the force of impact.

If you experience any discomfort or notice symptoms of an injury after an accident, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately.

Potential Injuries Caused by Airbags

Airbags are designed as a supplemental safety system to work together with seatbelts in protecting occupants during collisions. They are triggered by sensors that detect the impact of a collision and inflate rapidly to cushion the occupant’s body from striking hard surfaces. While airbags can significantly reduce the risk of severe injuries, they can also cause them, with common ones including:

• Facial injuries: The force of the airbag deploying can cause bruises and cuts to the face.

• Arm and hand injuries: When an airbag inflates, it does so almost instantaneously, and if a passenger’s arms or hands are in the way, they can be struck with considerable force. This impact can cause various injuries, such as fractures, dislocations, or abrasions.

• Chest injuries: In rare cases, airbags can trigger chest injuries if they deploy with enough force.

It is essential to follow proper seating positions recommended by car manufacturers to minimize potential injuries caused by airbags. This includes sitting upright with feet planted on the ground.

What to Do If You Suffer a Seatbelt or Airbag Injury

In the unfortunate event that you suffer an injury from a seatbelt or airbag during a collision, taking the following steps is crucial to ensure your health and well-being:

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor, it’s essential to get a thorough medical evaluation. Internal injuries may not be immediately apparent and can develop complications if untreated.
2. Document Your Injuries: Keep detailed records of all medical evaluations, treatments, and advice provided by healthcare professionals. Photographs of visible injuries can also be beneficial.
3. Report the Accident: Report the collision to your insurance company and provide them with all necessary documentation, including medical records and photographs.
4. Follow Medical Advice: Adhere strictly to the treatment plans prescribed by your doctor. This can include medication, physical therapy, and follow-up consultations.
5. Consult a Legal Professional: If the injury results in significant medical expenses or lost wages, consulting with a legal professional can be useful. A Fresno car accident lawyer can advise you on potential compensation and guide you through the claims process.

Navigating the aftermath of a collision and dealing with injuries caused by seatbelts or airbags can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. If you have suffered due to such an injury, our Fresno injury attorneys are here to help. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.