Wearing a seat belt while you’re on the road may save your life in case of an accident. They’re legally required for all drivers and passengers in motorized vehicles in Florida, with only a few exceptions.
While seat belts can keep you from being thrown out of your vehicle, they can trigger some injuries in an auto accident. The most common seat belt injuries include:
Rib Injuries
The force of a seat belt across your chest to restrain you can cause bruised or fractured ribs. These injuries require prompt treatment, as a fractured or dislocated rub can affect the heart or lungs. Rib injuries also tend to be very painful, and professional medical care can help reduce your discomfort.
Abrasions and Bruising
In an accident, a seat belt can forcibly rub against the skin, causing abrasions and bruising across the neck, shoulders, and torso. Abrasions and cuts from a seat belt need to be disinfected and covered ASAP.
Shoulder Injuries
The shoulder is highly vulnerable to injury in car accidents. A seat belt can press forcibly into the shoulder area in a crash and may tear the soft tissues surrounding the shoulder joint. Given that the shoulder is highly flexible and required for many daily activities, you may need ongoing medical care (such as physical therapy) to make a full recovery.
Abdominal Injuries
The part of the seat belt that extends across your lap can injure the soft tissue in the abdomen. Many essential organs are located in this area, so seek a medical evaluation immediately if you experience abdominal pain after an auto accident.
Sternum Injuries
The sternum is a flat bone in the middle of the chest. Generally, seat belts are positioned over the sternum and, in a crash, may injure the bone. Given that the sternum protects the heart and lungs, this type of injury is serious and requires immediate care.
If you or a loved one was recently a victim of an auto accident, contact Weldon & Rothman, PL for a free case evaluation.