Motorists who are involved in a car accidents are at high risk for serious internal injuries caused by something they may have never deemed as a threat—their seat belts. Doctors at MedStar Emergency Medical Services say that seat belts and airbags (originally seen as protective devices) have the potential to create serious injuries such as:
- Chest & Abdominal Injuries;
- Hematomas (bruising);
- Internal Bleeding;
- Intestinal Injuries;
- Rib Fractures; and
- Whiplash
Seat Belts & Internal Injuries
The problem with seat belts is that they have the potential to cause serious internal injuries. Thankfully, seat belts themselves cannot cause you internal injury. Internal injuries and seat belt injuries are caused by blunt trauma to the body, or penetrating trauma through the body, typically after a serious car accident. If you have been involved in a car accident and are experiencing symptoms of internal injury, you may be eligible to seek compensation.
Symptoms of internal injuries after a car accident are often hard to notice; however, their effects on your body can become serious if left untreated. Symptoms of internal injury include:
- Difficulty Breathing;
- Headache and loss of consciousness;
- Lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting;
- Pain and tenderness;
- Sudden bruising; and
- Swelling, tightness, and pain in the leg.
Who Is Responsible for Your Injuries?
In North Carolina, if you are involved in a car accident you can usually seek compensation for your injuries or damages to your vehicle by:
- Filing an insurance claim with your carrier. If you are involved in a car accident, usually the insurance companies will investigate the details of your accident and make a determination of fault. The insurance company of the person at fault typically handles compensation for your vehicle, and any injuries you may have sustained.
- Pursuing an insurance claim with the driver’s insurance company. North Carolina law gives you three years to file a lawsuit after a car accident. North Carolina also adheres to a “fault” system when it comes to determining how an injured person will be compensated after a car accident. In a fault state, the person who was legally at-fault for the accident is required to pay for damages to your vehicle and any injuries you may have sustained.
- Filing a lawsuit with an attorney against the driver If you are involved in an incident where the other party is blaming you for the accident, you need to hire a car accident attorney if you want compensation for your injuries.
Legal Representation for Charlotte Residents
Car accident laws vary according to state. Consulting with an experienced Charlotte, NC car accident attorney will be the first step to claiming the compensation you deserve. Charlotte residents, if you are seriously suffering from car accident-related injuries, contact us at the law firm of Ted A. Greve & Associates, P.A today to schedule a FREE consultation. We will help you fight for compensation for your injuries.
