Can You Receive Compensation If You Weren't Wearing A Seat Belt?

If you have been injured in a car accident, you could have a lot of injuries. But what if you weren't wearing a seat belt when it happened? Would you still be entitled to compensation? The answers may surprise you.

If you are worried about your personal injury claim after a car accident in which you were not wearing a seat belt, you need to keep reading.

First, Why Is Wearing a Seat Belt So Important?

For most people, wearing a seat belt is no issue. Of course, there are still many who do not. When you have a personal injury claim, this can complicate things.

Seat belts are required to be worn throughout most of the United States because they reduce the risk of death and serious injury. Of course, it is very possible that you may experience a car accident after you have forgotten to wear your seat belt or while taking it off for just a moment.

The injuries associated with not wearing a seat belt can be much more severe than the injuries that would have occurred if you were wearing a seat belt. For instance, somebody wearing a seat belt may face broken bones from impact, but somebody who did not wear a seat belt may be ejected from the vehicle.

You May Still Be Eligible to Receive Damages

Some states will still allow you to receive damages through a personal injury case if you are involved in an accident that is not your fault. Even if the defendant brings up the fact that you were not wearing a seat belt, they can still be held accountable for the accident, at least to some degree.

What may happen is that you are deemed partially at fault for your injuries. This could mean that you still receive compensation, but it may be slightly reduced.

Damages You Can Receive

There are many damages you may receive after an injury caused by a car accident. These involve medical bills, physical therapy, lost wages, and emotional damages like pain and suffering. These damages can be covered by a personal injury case, at least in part.

Hire a Personal Injury Attorney

If you faced injuries after an accident and were not wearing a seat belt, you should discuss your case with a personal injury attorney. Do not give up simply because you may be held partially at fault. You can still receive compensation that you can use to help cover your injuries.

To learn more, contact an auto accident lawyer.