Seat belts play a critical role in protecting occupants during car accidents, reducing the risk of severe injuries or fatalities. However, there have been instances where seat belts have malfunctioned during a crash, leading to serious injuries for those whose seat belts failed to work correctly. If you were injured in a car accident and believe a seat belt malfunction led to your injury, contact a lawyer to ensure your rights are protected as you seek compensation related to your injury. Do not wait to contact a lawyer and file your claim, as Illinois has a strict two-year statute of limitations in such cases.
Seat Belt Design and Manufacturing Defects
While seat belts are designed to withstand the forces of a collision, like any other mechanical device, they are not immune to defects. Manufacturing flaws can compromise the effectiveness of a seat belt during an accident. These defects may include faulty latches and more. A defect in the seat belt’s design or manufacturing process could result in the seat belt failing to properly restrain the passenger during a crash.
Improper Installation or Maintenance
Seat belts must be correctly installed and regularly maintained to ensure their optimal functioning. Failure to properly install or maintain a seat belt, such as not securing it tightly or neglecting to replace worn-out parts, could lead to a malfunction. In such cases, personal injury lawsuits may not be possible, as the responsibility may have been with the vehicle owner to ensure that the seat belts had been properly maintained up until the accident occurred. Discuss with your lawyer whether this is a factor in your case.
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