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Defective Seat belts: A Hidden Danger on Our Roads
Unbeknownst to many drivers, a significant number of cars on our roads today are equipped with defective seat belts. Personal injury attorneys who specialize in this area have encountered numerous cases involving faulty seat belts, and unfortunately, this problem shows no signs of diminishing. Astonishingly, some major auto manufacturers are aware of these defects, yet they continue to install these subpar seatbelts primarily for cost-saving purposes. The safer belts, free from known defects, are considered more expensive, which directly impacts the manufacturers’ bottom line.
Consumer advocacy groups are rightfully outraged by the prioritization of profits over saving lives, although car companies vehemently deny such claims. As consumers, we have minimal awareness that our seatbelts may be defective. When we fasten our seatbelts, we hear the distinct ‘click’ sound as the buckle engages with the latch, and the belt itself appears secure. It may even function properly under normal driving conditions. However, the true danger only reveals itself during sudden braking or when the car abruptly comes to a stop, often due to a collision. It is at this critical moment that the defective seatbelt demonstrates its true colors. The hidden danger lies in the fact that we remain unaware of a faulty seatbelt until it’s too late. More on this site
That being said, there are some relatively crude tests one can perform to determine if a seatbelt might be defective, although these tests are not foolproof and only serve as indicators. To be considered safe, a seat belt’s buckle and clip must withstand a specific amount of applied pressure, typically 5 pounds (equivalent to the weight of a newborn baby). Try pulling the belt sharply with a force exceeding 5 pounds. If the buckle detaches from the clip, it is defective and should be replaced. More information here
Inertial seat belts are designed to protect the body from what is known as the “second force.” This force occurs after the initial impact when the car comes to a sudden stop. Inertial forces, governed by gravity, continue to propel the body forward. It is this second force that often causes more injuries than the impact itself. The purpose of inertial latching on a safety belt is to minimize the movement resulting from this second force, thereby locking the belt in place. However, a defective belt may fail to lock correctly, leading to inertial unlatching. To test if the belt locks up properly, once again, tug sharply on the belt with a force exceeding 5 pounds. If it fails to lock, it can be deemed faulty and should be replaced.
Another aspect to consider is the possibility of physical damage to the belt. Inspect for visible signs of wear or damage. In some cases, wear may be apparent, indicating the need for immediate replacement. In other instances, the webbing may seem strong to the naked eye, but there could be underlying manufacturing defects compromising its structural integrity. Since their introduction in the United States in 1964, seatbelts have undoubtedly saved countless lives, and we rely on them to protect us in the event of sudden stops or collisions. If you suspect that you or a family member has been a victim of a defective seatbelt, it is crucial to contact an experienced personal injury attorney well-versed in handling such cases. They can make a significant difference in ensuring you receive the compensation you rightfully deserve, potentially making the distinction between walking away empty-handed or securing a successful claim.
