You may feel that you are quite safe travelling in an enclosed car. You feel that the metal shell will protect you from harms way should you fall into an accident. It is a big mistake to think this. Many passengers that have been involved in a car accident suffer horrific injures and have to live with the physical and psychological impact for years to come.

The most talked about injury and one that is most commonly cited in a road accident is whiplash injury. A perhaps more less talked about injury is seatbelt injury. Seatbelt injury is actually a much more common injury than people think. If you think about the impact of a car accident, it is hardly surprising. When another vehicle slams into the back of your car or slams into the side of your car, you will be naturally jerked forwards or sideways. This jerk reaction will impact your body even if you are wearing a seatbelt.

Of course wearing a seatbelt is fundamental to your overall safety as the impact of the accident is likely to be far more serious on the person if they were not wearing one. Since the seatbelt has been introduced thousands of lives have been saved as a result.

If you have suffered a seatbelt injury, it could be because of the negligent behaviour at the wheel. The driver may have been speeding unnecessarily or overtaking dangerously. The driver also may have ignored the weather conditions and be driving recklessly or in road rage. If you feel that you suffered the seatbelt injury due to the driver’s negligent behaviour then you have a right to make a claim. It is your personal right as you sustained injuries due to someone else’s reckless behaviour.

What you should expect if you are involved in a road accident

Depending on the impact of the road accident, you could expect to have the seatbelt dig into your abdomen. This can cause abdomen tenderness or even possible bowel injuries. In order to avoid these injuries there are a few steps you can take.

Most drivers make the mistake of putting their seatbelts on loosely thinking that it should be sufficient in the event of an accident. However, to reduce injury it is important to wear the seatbelt as tightly as possible. Seatbelts have been known to save lives in accidents so you should ensure that:

* You wear your seatbelt as tight as possible

* Ensure that you always wear the lap belt over your pelvis and hips

* Ensure that you wear the diagonal strap over your shoulders

Have you been in a road accident and suffered seatbelt injuries due to the driver’s reckless behaviour in driving? If you have then you have a personal right to make a claim and should contact our solicitors. Our solicitors will examine your case and advise you on your next step.

Ayesha Salim is editor of the UK Lawyers Network. Ayesha writes articles about road accidents, road traffic accidents and motoring issues. Please visit the website if you would like to see more of Ayesha’s work or if you would like to contact local solicitors or to talk with a personal injury lawyer.

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