What Is “Seat Belt Syndrome?”

Seat belts are essential safety devices that can significantly reduce the risk of serious harm or fatalities in motor vehicle accidents. However, they can also cause serious injuries, particularly when the collision forces are significant.

Although a well-designed seat belt that is properly worn will prevent the occupants of a car from being flung violently against the steering wheel, dashboard, or windshield, the force applied to the body by the restraining effect of the belt is significant and increases the chance of certain injuries collectively known as “seat belt syndrome.”

Seat belt syndrome refers to a pattern of injuries that can occur when an individual is involved in a motor vehicle accident while wearing a seat belt. It is typically associated with the use of lap and shoulder belts and is characterized by specific kinds of injuries that result from the force exerted by the seat belt during a collision.

Some common injuries associated with seat belt syndrome include:

• Abdominal injuries: Because the force of the seat belt is concentrated on the lower part of the abdomen during a collision, the lap belt component can cause damage to internal organs such as the liver, spleen, or intestines.
• Spinal fractures: The shoulder harness of the seat belt can transmit force to the spine during a crash, potentially resulting in spinal fractures or other injuries to the vertebrae.
• Thoracic injuries: Injuries to the chest and thoracic region, including rib fractures, lung injuries, and damage to the heart, can occur due to the restraining forces put forth by the seat belt.
• Soft tissue injuries: In the event of a collision, seat belts frequently cause seat belt marks or seat belt abrasions—bruises, contusions, and abrasions—due to the force exerted upon the body.
• Pregnancy complications: Pregnant women wearing seat belts may be at risk for injuries to both themselves and their unborn child in the event of a collision. However, pregnant women must wear seat belts properly, as the benefits of protection generally outweigh the risks.

The severity of seat belt syndrome injuries can vary depending on the speed of the collision, the type of impact, and the proper use of seat belts.

What are the symptoms of seat belt syndrome?

Accident victims should seek medical attention immediately for injuries related to seat belt syndrome because if they are left undiagnosed and untreated, they may become life-threatening or result in lifelong disabilities and impairments. Here are some common symptoms of seat belt syndrome:

• Abrasions and/or bruises appearing horizontally across an accident victim’s abdomen
• Marks, abrasions, and/or bruises at a 45-degree angle from hip to opposite shoulder, crossing over the sternum area
• Muscle strains around the abdomen
• Weakness in the legs
• Dizziness indicative of internal organ injury
• Blood in stool or urine
• Changes in urination or bowel movements
• Vomiting or coughing up blood
• Difficulty breathing
• Abdominal pain or pain between the hips and ribs

If you were injured in a motor vehicle accident, particularly one involving a commercial truck, seeking prompt medical attention is essential, even if injuries are not immediately apparent.

How can seat belt syndrome be prevented?

Seat belt syndrome can be prevented or lessened by following proper seat belt usage guidelines and adopting safe driving practices. Here are some recommendations to help prevent seat belt syndrome:

• Wear seat belts correctly: Ensure that seat belts are worn correctly, with the lap belt positioned low across the hips and the shoulder belt across the chest and over the shoulder. Avoid placing the shoulder belt behind the back or under the arm.
• Use three-point seat belts: Three-point seat belts, which include both lap and shoulder restraints, provide better protection than lap belts alone. As a result, most modern vehicles are equipped with three-point seat belts.
• Adjust seat belt tension: To avoid seat belt injuries, ensure the seat belt is snug and properly adjusted to limit excessive movement during a collision.
• Sit back in the seat: Always sit back in the seat with your back against the backrest to allow the seat and seat belt to provide optimal protection in the event of a crash.
• Position the steering wheel correctly: Adjust the steering wheel to point toward the chest rather than the face to allow the seat belt to function effectively and minimize the risk of injury from the airbag.
• Secure child passengers: Follow guidelines for properly installing child safety seats and ensure that child passengers are secured in age-appropriate car seats or booster seats.
• Drive safely: Follow traffic laws and practice safe driving habits—avoid speeding, maintain a safe following distance, and stay attentive while driving–to reduce the risk of accidents.
• Avoid distractions: Minimize distractions like texting, talking on the phone, or engaging in other activities while driving.
• Check seat belt condition: Inspect seat belts for signs of wear, damage, or malfunction, and promptly replace damaged or worn seat belts.
• Educate passengers: Encourage everyone in the vehicle to use seat belts properly and educate them about the importance of seat belt safety.

While seat belts can cause injuries in certain situations, the overall benefits of wearing seat belts far outweigh the risks, and the injuries associated with seat belt syndrome are generally considered less severe than those that might result from not wearing a seat belt during a collision. In truck accidents, the size and weight of the trucks involved often lead to more severe collisions, which in turn can increase the risk of injuries, including those associated with seat belt syndrome.

At Phelan Petty Injury Lawyers, our team of experienced truck accident attorneys in Richmond will listen to your story, assess your claim, educate you about your legal options, and, when you’re ready, work with you to pursue the maximum compensation for your case. To schedule a free consultation with one of our skilled lawyers, call us or fill out our contact form today. We’re conveniently located near I-64 and Route 250 in Richmond, and serve clients throughout Virginia.