Common Injuries For Back Seat Passengers
The IIHS highlights that people riding in the back seat are actually 8 times more likely to end up killed or seriously injured than those riding in the front seats. This is due to several reasons like the seat belt being used less often and fewer safety options available.
To highlight how dangerous it can be to ride in the back seat, let’s talk about the most common injuries such passengers face.
Common Injuries For Back Seat Passengers
Most injuries happen because of the fact that back seat passengers do not wear their seat belts. This often led to chest injuries, which stand out as the most common injuries suffered. Fortunately, most of them are not that serious, although the opposite can also be the case, as is with the second most common back seat injury type, which is the head injury.Chest and head injuries are present in close to 50% of the fatal car accidents. And the specific back seat passenger injuries that have to be highlighted are:
- Fractured ribs
- Bruised ribs
- Brain bleeds
- TBI (traumatic brain injury)
- Spinal damage
- Punctures (affecting lungs, the heart, or ribs)
Contributing Factors To Know
The back seat can be much more dangerous due to several reasons. Unfortunately, personal injury lawyers Munley Law declare that the auto industry right now does not do enough to protect the passengers of the vehicle.The big problem is it is less likely for the back seat passenger to buckle up. Also, the seat belt is often not used. While 91% of front seat passengers do use the seat belt, for the back seat passengers the percentage is just 72%.
We should also add that riding in the back brings in a sense of security that is false. In the past, the back seats were considered to be safer but this did change in time. And older vehicles often do not have shoulder belts.
The Problem With Rideshare Services
The popularity of rideshare services means more people are riding in the back seat. Unfortunately, the majority of adults who use such services, including taxis, do not actually use the seat belt. This really simple oversight can lead to serious problems.What To Do When In An Accident
If you are riding in the back seat and you are involved in an accident, the most important thing is to get medical attention as soon as possible. This is true even if you do not notice any injury being present. The reason for this is that you might be injured without even being aware of it.It is likely that a personal injury claim can be filed and it is a thing to seriously take into account, including when using rideshare services. An attorney is going to help you to build a strong case against the party at fault. However, at the end of the day, the most important thing is to get the medical attention you need.
Never underestimate how serious injuries can be for back seat passengers. The false sense of security is something that can prove to be highly problematic.
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