Seatbelt Trauma Can Last a Lifetime

Years of research and experience has validated beyond any doubt that seatbelts save lives. Your chances of survival and/or escaping serious injury are measurably increased when wearing a seat belt. In fact, research shows that your chances of survival have increased by at least 60%. However, increasing use due to seatbelt compliance laws also contributes to seatbelt trauma in the event of an accident.

While most seatbelt-related injuries are slight and recovery only requires minimal time, some seatbelt trauma can last a lifetime. The most common injury associated with seatbelt use in an accident is subcutaneous bruising and chest and/or abdominal abrasions. In addition, fractures of the sternum are being seen with increasing frequency, with some studies showing a threefold increase in reports of these fractures.

Clinical Research on Seatbelt Trauma

A study published in 2014 by the National Institutes of Health revealed that seatbelt trauma was a significant factor in solid organ injuries, especially when the seatbelt lies higher on the abdomen. Such injuries required immediate surgery and victims experienced more postoperative complications. The forces of restraint and rapid deceleration can cause intestinal perforations as well as fractures of the sternum, ribs and even the clavicle. Injuries to major blood vessels are not uncommon.

Another study published in the Southern Medical Journal in 2006 also indicated a significant increase in intestinal injuries caused by seatbelt trauma since the introduction of the three point seatbelt in the 1970s and legislation requiring seatbelt use in the 1980s. While a seatbelt abrasion across the abdomen raises suspicions of possible intestinal injuries, it is not a definite indicator. However, seatbelt signs should be documented immediately after any accident and a thorough medical evaluation should be performed as soon as possible.

Long-Term Complications From Seatbelt Trauma

Victims that were treated for seatbelt trauma following an accident most often experience continuing pain and tenderness in the shoulder, sternum and abdominal regions. Many have reported continuing problems when breathing, particularly during increased exertion. Too often, x-rays and other medical tests reveal no apparent cause of these ongoing complications. However, such symptoms only began to manifest after the accident, and are suspiciously in the region that would indicate seatbelt use.

If you have recently been in an accident in eastern Oklahoma, Tulsa or McAlester, and continue to experience pain or other difficulties you believe may be related to seatbelt trauma, contact the personal injury attorneys of Edwards and Patterson Law. Our team will examine your case, including any medical examinations from the accident, and advise you regarding any legal steps required. Contact us today or call 877-403-8417 to arrange your free consultation.