Car accidents can be a confusing and frightening experience. If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed by the sudden changes in your life. Many victims worry about what will happen next and whether they will receive the compensation they deserve. At Keenan Law Firm, we understand the emotions you are going through and are here to help. Our goal is to provide you with the support you need to navigate this challenging time and ensure that you can focus on your recovery while we take care of the legal details.
One of the most important things to consider after a car accident in Georgia is how the use of a seatbelt could have affected the outcome. Seatbelts are simple yet incredibly effective tools designed to keep drivers and passengers safe. In this blog, we will explore how seatbelts save lives in car accidents, the legal importance of seatbelt use in Georgia, and how our firm can help you with your case.
The Role of Seatbelts in Reducing Injury
Seatbelts are often the difference between life and death in car accidents. When properly used, seatbelts restrain passengers and prevent them from being ejected from the vehicle during a collision. This is especially critical in high-speed crashes or accidents where the car rolls over. According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), seatbelts reduce the risk of serious injury and death by up to 50%. In Georgia, where car accidents are unfortunately common, wearing a seatbelt is one of the simplest ways to protect yourself and others on the road.
Seatbelts help prevent injuries by securing the occupant in place, reducing the risk of hitting the dashboard, side window, or other parts of the vehicle that could cause severe damage. Without a seatbelt, the force of the crash can send a person flying forward, causing them to collide with the steering wheel or windshield, leading to head and neck injuries, broken bones, or even fatal harm. The restraint system, which includes the lap and shoulder belts, works together to spread out the force of the crash across the body, reducing the chance of injury.
Georgia Seatbelt Laws and Legal Implications
In Georgia, wearing a seatbelt is not only a safety measure but also a legal requirement. Under state law, all drivers and passengers in the front seat must wear seatbelts. Additionally, children under the age of 8 or shorter than 4’9” must be secured in an appropriate child safety seat. Failure to wear a seatbelt can lead to fines and legal consequences, but it can also have an impact on your personal injury case if you are involved in a car accident.
Matthew Powell
Katherine Rinaldo
Don Truskett
Michael Strong
If you are injured in a car accident and were not wearing a seatbelt, the opposing insurance company may argue that your injuries were worsened by your failure to use a seatbelt. This could affect your ability to recover the full compensation you deserve for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages. However, Georgia follows a comparative fault rule, meaning that even if you were partially at fault for not wearing a seatbelt, you may still be entitled to compensation for your injuries. It is important to consult with an experienced attorney who can evaluate your case and help you understand your rights.
The Importance of Seeking Medical Attention After an Accident
Even if you are wearing a seatbelt, car accidents can still result in injuries. The force of a collision can cause whiplash, back injuries, broken bones, and internal injuries, all of which may not be immediately apparent. This is why it is crucial to seek medical attention right after an accident, even if you feel fine at first. Some injuries, such as soft tissue damage, may take days or even weeks to show symptoms. Getting checked out by a doctor helps ensure that any injuries are properly diagnosed and treated before they become more serious.
Additionally, seeking medical attention after an accident is important for your legal case. Medical records are vital evidence when pursuing a personal injury claim, and failing to see a doctor right away could hurt your case. If you wait too long to seek treatment, the insurance company may argue that your injuries are not as severe as you claim, making it harder to secure compensation for your losses. By getting the care you need right away, you can protect your health and your case.
Verdicts & Settlements
If you have been involved in a car accident in Georgia, we understand the pain and uncertainty you may be feeling. Whether you were wearing a seatbelt or not, the legal process can be complicated, and the outcome of your case may depend on various factors. At Keenan Law Firm, we have extensive experience handling car accident cases and can guide you through the entire process. We are committed to ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Our team will thoroughly investigate the details of your accident, gather all necessary evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. We understand how seatbelt usage can impact your case, and we will work tirelessly to ensure that your rights are protected. Our goal is to make sure that you receive the best possible outcome, allowing you to focus on what matters most—your recovery.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Georgia, don’t wait to get the help you need. Contact Keenan Law Firm today for a free consultation. Let us put our experience to work for you and help you get the successful case result you deserve.