Wearing a seatbelt is one of the most effective ways to prevent serious injuries in a car accident. However, seatbelts can also cause injuries due to their forceful restraint in a crash. If you or someone you care about got hurt by a seatbelt in Chicago, Illinois, you may be entitled to compensation. This can cover your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
At Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys, we help injured victims and understand how to get favorable outcomes. With decades of combined experience, we’ve recovered over $100 million in compensation for our deserving clients. We’ll work just as hard on your case. Contact our Chicago seatbelt injury lawyers today for a free consultation at (312) 726-1616.
How Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys Can Help After a Seatbelt Injury in Chicago, IL
Seatbelt injuries can be complex cases, often requiring thorough investigations and expert analysis. Our Chicago car accident lawyers can help by:
- Investigating your accident to determine how and why your seatbelt caused harm.
- Gathering medical records and expert testimony to establish the severity of your injuries.
- Determining liability, whether it be a vehicle manufacturer, another driver, or another party.
- Negotiating with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement.
- Taking your case to trial if necessary to maximize your financial recovery.
We handle all personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win compensation for you. Contact our seatbelt injury lawyers in Chicago, IL, today to discuss your case.
Common Seatbelt-Related Injuries in Chicago
While seatbelts save lives, they can also cause serious injuries due to the force exerted during a crash. Common seatbelt-related injuries include:
- Chest injuries: Bruising, fractured ribs, or damage to the sternum
- Internal injuries: Damage to internal organs due to compression
- Whiplash and neck injuries: The restraint can contribute to neck strain and spinal injuries
- Shoulder injuries: Torn rotator cuffs and muscle damage
- Abrasions and lacerations: Seatbelt burns and cuts from the fabric’s pressure
- Fractured collarbones: A common result of forceful restraint during an accident
If you have any of these injuries, it’s important to get medical help and talk to a lawyer. This protects your rights.
Who Is Liable for a Seatbelt Injury in Chicago?
Determining liability for seatbelt injuries depends on the circumstances of the accident. Potentially liable parties include:
- Negligent drivers: If another driver caused the accident, they may be responsible for your injuries.
- Vehicle makers: If your seatbelt is faulty or doesn’t work, the manufacturer might be responsible.
- Automotive parts manufacturers: A third-party company that makes a faulty seatbelt part can be liable.
- Government entities: If bad road conditions caused the accident, a local government agency might be liable.
Our attorneys will investigate thoroughly. We will find all liable parties and seek maximum compensation on your behalf.
What Compensation Can You Recover for a Seatbelt Injury in Chicago?
If you suffered a seatbelt-related injury, you may be entitled to recover compensation for both your economic and non-economic damages. Examples include, but are not limited to:
- Medical expenses: Hospital visits, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing care.
- Lost wages: Compensation for time off work due to your injuries.
- Pain and suffering: Damages for emotional distress and physical pain.
- Disability and disfigurement: Compensation if the injury leads to long-term impairment.
- Property damage: Reimbursement for vehicle damage from the crash.
We will evaluate your case thoroughly and fight for the full amount of compensation you deserve. If applicable, we also won’t hesitate to pursue punitive damages for your claim.
How Illinois’ Comparative Negligence Law Impacts Your Case
Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule with a 51% bar. This means:
- You can recover damages if you are less than 51% responsible for the accident.
- Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
- If you are 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover damages.
Insurance companies may attempt to shift blame onto you to minimize their payout. Our Chicago personal injury attorneys will work to counter these tactics and protect your rights.
How Long Do You Have To File a Seatbelt Injury Lawsuit in Illinois?
In Illinois, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident. Missing this deadline can bar you from recovering compensation.
Certain exceptions may apply, such as when the injured party is a minor or if the case involves a government entity. It is crucial to contact a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure you meet all filing deadlines.
Contact a Chicago Seatbelt Injury Attorney for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been hurt by a seatbelt in Chicago, you need a skilled lawyer to defend your rights. At Zayed Law Offices, we’re passionate about fighting for the rights of accident victims. We make sure they get the compensation they deserve. Contact our Chicago seatbelt injury attorneys today for a free consultation.
