Seatbelts save lives, but they can also cause serious injuries in the event of a crash. If you have experienced pain, bruising, chest injuries, or internal trauma caused by a seatbelt during a car accident, you may be entitled to financial compensation.
The law in Arizona allows injured victims to seek recovery for all damages caused by negligent drivers, even when safety devices contribute to the injury.
At GLG Personal Injury Lawyers, we understand the dual nature of seatbelt injuries. While they prevent fatalities, they can also leave victims with debilitating physical and emotional trauma. As experienced Phoenix accident lawyers, we are here to protect your rights, hold negligent drivers accountable, and pursue the maximum compensation for your recovery.
Whether you are dealing with sternum fractures, abdominal trauma, or long-term pain from seatbelt injuries, our team will stand by you. With over 30 years of combined experience and more than $100 million recovered, we fight for results that make a difference.
Understanding Seatbelt Injuries in Arizona Car Accidents
Seatbelt injuries occur when the force of a collision causes the safety harness to tighten rapidly across the chest, ribs, and abdomen. Although the belt is designed to restrain the body and prevent ejection from the vehicle, the pressure can result in a wide range of injuries, some of which are immediately obvious, and others that emerge days later.
Common types of seatbelt injuries include:
- Bruising and abrasions on the chest, shoulder, or hip
- Fractured ribs or sternum
- Internal bleeding or organ damage (liver, spleen, intestines)
- Abdominal trauma from lap belts
- Whiplash or spinal misalignment
- Soft tissue damage in the neck or collarbone
- Breathing difficulty caused by chest compression
These injuries often occur in crashes at intersections, during high-speed impacts on I-10 or Loop 101, or in sudden braking situations on congested Phoenix streets, such as Camelback Road or Indian School Road. In many cases, the seatbelt has done its job, but you are still left with painful and costly injuries.
You should never feel guilty for wearing a seatbelt. Arizona law does not penalize you for using safety restraints. If a negligent driver caused the crash, they can still be held liable for your injuries, even if the seatbelt contributed to some of the harm.
Arizona Law and Your Right to Compensation
Arizona follows a fault-based system for car accidents. That means the driver who caused the crash is responsible for paying for all related injuries, including those caused or worsened by the use of a seatbelt.
You are also protected under comparative negligence rules in Arizona. Even if an insurance company argues that your injuries were made worse by how you wore the seatbelt or that you removed it during the crash, you can still recover compensation. Your total damages may be reduced by your percentage of fault, but you are not barred from recovery unless you are entirely at fault.
This is why it is critical to work with a seasoned car accident attorney in Phoenix who understands how to prove causation, challenge exaggerated fault claims, and build a strong case that reflects the full impact of your injuries.
Why You Need a Phoenix Seatbelt Injury Lawyer
After a crash, insurance companies often downplay injuries, especially those involving seatbelts. Adjusters may argue that you are exaggerating pain, had a pre-existing condition, or wore the belt improperly. These tactics are used to deny or reduce valid claims.
When you work with our Phoenix seatbelt injury lawyer, you receive a powerful advocate who will:
Investigate the Crash Scene
- Analyze vehicle damage, seatbelt placement, and crash dynamics
- Secure police reports, witness statements, and photos
- Preserve evidence that shows how and why the injury occurred
Collaborate With Medical Experts
- Obtain imaging and medical records showing trauma from the seatbelt
- Document how the injury affects your daily life, work, and health
- Work with orthopedic specialists, trauma surgeons, and rehabilitation experts
Handle Insurance Negotiations
- Push back on adjusters who attempt to minimize seatbelt-related injuries
- Challenge arguments that seek to shift fault onto you
- Present a clear demand backed by legal and medical evidence
File Lawsuits When Necessary
- Prepare your case for litigation if insurers refuse to negotiate fairly
- Handle discovery, depositions, court motions, and trial preparation
- Seek full recovery for all damages, including future medical needs and lost wages
Seatbelt injuries may seem less visible than broken bones or spinal damage, but they can be just as painful and long-lasting. Let us help you secure the financial support you need to heal and move forward.
What Makes GLG the Best Accident Lawyer in Phoenix
Not all personal injury firms offer the same level of attention, experience, or commitment. At GLG Personal Injury Lawyers, we treat every client with respect and compassion, while bringing relentless pressure to insurance companies and opposing counsel.
Here is why we are recognized as the best accident lawyers in Phoenix:
Local Knowledge and Legal Strength
- Based in Phoenix and familiar with Maricopa County courts
- Decades of combined experience handling complex injury claims
- Successful verdicts and settlements for injury victims throughout Arizona
Results That Speak for Themselves
- Over $100 million recovered for injured clients
- Strategic handling of cases involving seatbelt injuries, internal trauma, and soft-tissue damage
- Trusted by the Phoenix community for honest, effective representation
No Fees Unless We Win
- You pay nothing upfront
- We cover all case costs during litigation
- We only get paid if we recover compensation for you
Personalized Legal Support
- Free, no-obligation consultations
- Direct access to your attorney, not just assistants
- Regular updates, responsive communication, and honest guidance
From start to finish, we are committed to helping you heal, recover, and reclaim your life after a serious car accident injury.
What to Do After a Seatbelt Injury in Phoenix
Seatbelt injuries are often overlooked or misdiagnosed. Following these steps can help protect your health and legal rights:
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if symptoms seem mild, get examined by a doctor. Internal injuries and organ damage can be life-threatening if left untreated.
Document Your Injuries and the Crash
Take photos of visible injuries, the seatbelt marks, vehicle damage, and the accident scene. Request a copy of the police report and get witness names.
Do Not Accept a Quick Settlement
Insurance companies may offer low settlements before the full extent of your injuries is known. Do not agree to anything without legal advice.
Call a Phoenix Seatbelt Injury Lawyer
Early legal intervention helps preserve evidence, guide your treatment, and stop insurers from taking advantage of you.
Follow Your Treatment Plan
Stay consistent with medical appointments and therapy. This strengthens your claim and supports your recovery.
Real Risks of Seatbelt Injuries in Arizona
While Phoenix has some of the highest seatbelt compliance rates in the country, the number of seatbelt-related injuries continues to rise due to high traffic volume, aggressive drivers, and speed-related crashes.
- The Arizona Department of Transportation reports over 100,000 crashes annually
- Of those, tens of thousands involve moderate to severe injuries, including those caused by seatbelts
- Many of the worst crashes occur on I‑17, US‑60, and city roads like Thomas Road and Indian School Road
- Phoenix emergency rooms frequently treat chest trauma, rib fractures, and abdominal injuries from restraints
These statistics reveal an important truth: seatbelts save lives, but they can leave lasting physical damage. You deserve full support when those safety measures leave you in pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Seatbelt Injuries Eligible for Compensation?
Yes. If another driver caused the crash, you can pursue compensation for injuries caused by your seatbelt. These injuries are valid under Arizona personal injury law.
What if I Was Not Wearing a Seatbelt?
You may still be eligible for compensation. Arizona courts may reduce your recovery under comparative negligence, but you are not automatically denied recovery.
How Much Is My Seatbelt Injury Claim Worth?
Every case is unique. Your compensation depends on medical costs, pain and suffering, lost income, future care needs, and how the injury affects your life.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?
Arizona has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. It is critical to act quickly to preserve your right to recover damages.
Can I Handle This Without a Lawyer?
Insurance companies often deny or underpay claims for injuries resulting from seatbelt use. A skilled attorney can present medical evidence, challenge unfair tactics, and fight for your full recovery.
Contact GLG Personal Injury Lawyers Today
You should not have to suffer in silence after being injured in a crash, especially when the seatbelt meant to protect you has left lasting harm. Let a Phoenix seatbelt injury lawyer from GLG Personal Injury Lawyers take the legal burden off your shoulders.
We are ready to:
- Investigate your crash
- Document your injuries
- Negotiate aggressively
- Go to trial when needed
- Recover every dollar you deserve
Contact us now or complete our online contact form to schedule a complimentary consultation. You pay nothing unless we win your case.
When safety turns into suffering, we are here to bring justice, peace of mind, and the compensation you need to move forward.
