Why wear a seatbelt? Seatbelt = Money

Dear Attorney Sol, 

It is uncomfortable wearing a seatbelt. It is worth it to me to be comfortable without it. But you say to wear it anyway. Why?

Answer: When it comes to the importance of wearing a seatbelt for safety, many drivers and passengers do not realize the implications it can have in a personal injury lawsuit. When not buckling up, in the event of a serious car accident, insurance companies have their lawyers allege what is known as the "seatbelt defense" to reduce or deny injury claims. This legal strategy claims that an otherwise innocent injured person’s failure to wear a seatbelt contributed to their own injuries. That can wipe out much of the insurer’s liability!

While seatbelt laws vary, the seatbelt defense is used in Court to shift some of the blame onto the injured person. The insurance company lawyers can reduce the amount the insurer will have to pay if they can prove that the severity of injuries could have been prevented or lessened by wearing a seatbelt. This tactic isn’t necessarily about fairness—it’s about protecting their bottom line. Your compensation could be significantly reduced simply because you weren’t wearing a seatbelt, even if the other driver was clearly at fault.

Whether or not seatbelt use is legally required where you live, buckling up can protect you not just physically but also financially. Ultimately, insurance companies are in the business of making money, not just paying claims. If you're ever involved in a crash, wearing a seatbelt eliminates a major argument insurance companies could use against you, helping ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. So, while seatbelt laws exist for safety reasons, they also play a crucial role in personal injury lawsuits.

Help yourself, in case it ever becomes necessary, and buckle-up!