In a car with a standard 3-point seatbelt harness, when you recline your seat back, you move away from the seatbelt shoulder restraint system. The restraint harness is usually anchored on the car’s B support pillar. When you recline, you’ve pulled out of position in regards to the seatbelt restraints. Standard seatbelt geometry becomes basically useless if you move out of position or wear the seatbelt improperly. Improper use of seatbelt restraints puts you at increased risk of severe injuries from a car wreck. The more space that exists between your chest and the seat belt shoulder restraint, the greater your chance of experiencing severe injuries from a car wreck, or even death, when:
* Your body crashes into the seat belt restraints during a wreck, or
* You “submarine” below and/or out of the seatbelt restraints system.
Some of the more likely severe injuries from a car wreck when you recline in your seat are:
* Spinal fractures,
* Severe leg injuries from sliding into the dashboard,
* The seatbelt slicing into your abdominal cavity,
* Chest impacts,
* Severe head injuries and brain traumas, and
* Leg amputations.
A national study on severe injuries from a car wreck when you recline in your seat at the time of the wreck showed that:
* Partially reclined passengers increased their chances of fatal wrecks by 15%, and
* Fully reclined passengers increased their chances of death by 70%.
Some of the increased risk comes from the increased risk of ejection from the vehicle during the wreck. Vehicle ejection increases your chances of dying in a wreck by up to 75%. Don’t risk your life and your safety. Stay upright in your seat. And always wear your seatbelt properly.
If you do suffer severe injuries from a car wreck, our Lake Jackson car accident lawyers could help you recover proper compensation for your valid injury claim. Tony Denena and Chad Points are Texas Board Certified personal injury attorneys. We have the specialized skill and experience you need to win your case. Give us a call at (877) 307-9500 for your free legal consultation. We could discuss the specific facts and circumstances of your case, and help put you on track to a successful solution to your financial burdens following your car wreck. We also have free books that you can order on Texas car injury claims, and what you could do after your severe car wreck. So don’t hesitate to call; we’re here to help.