Defective Seat Belts
Seat belts are imperative to the safety of vehicle occupants in a collision. If a seat belt does not operate correctly, it could compromise the device’s ability to prevent serious and fatal injuries. A product liability claim in Columbus could repay the victim for his or her damages. Call Elk & Elk at (614) 230-0634 to speak to a Columbus car accident attorney about your defective seat belt claim. Our Columbus injury firm may be able to help you move forward after a serious auto accident.
Why Choose Our Law Firm?
- We want to make the product liability claim experience as easy as possible for clients. We have offices throughout Ohio, and will also make house calls and hospital visits for initial consultations if necessary.
- We believe in the power of personalized legal strategies. We undergo an extensive consultation process to understand the unique needs and challenges of each client before devising a plan.
- We understand how a defective seat belt could impact your family financially. Our firm operates on a contingency fee basis, so you will not pay until we secure your financial compensation.
Why Do You Need a Lawyer?
If a defective seat belt caused your serious injury, retaining the services of a skilled product liability attorney can help maximize your claim. At Elk & Elk, we can:
- Determine the full value of your case.
- Gather evidence necessary to prove that a defective seat belt caused your injuries.
- Hire any experts or professionals necessary to help substantiate your claim.
- Negotiate with insurance companies and large corporations to secure the maximum possible compensation.
- Take your case to trial if necessary.
We are dedicated to helping you receive the compensation and justice you deserve.
Types of Seat Belt Defects
Most seat belts, retractors, and anchors work effectively to keep a vehicle occupant in position and safely in the vehicle during a crash. However, some seat belts may leave the manufacturer with dangerous defects, resulting in the potential to malfunction when it matters most.
- Design flaws. A poorly designed seat belt may endanger the lives of consumers with unsafe seat belt geometry, door-mounted seat belts that could eject passengers, or components that may fail under pressure.
- Manufacturing mistakes. An error made during the manufacture of the seat belt could lead to a defect that causes a malfunction, such as a belt that splits apart from an incorrectly sewn seam.
- Marketing mistakes. A mistake in the seat belt’s marketing materials could lead to the improper installation of the seat belt at the automaker. This could lead to the belt’s inability to perform as intended.
An example of a defective seat belt is one with a latch or buckle that opens upon impact. This could lead to the occupant striking an object within the vehicle and suffering a severe injury that he or she likely would not have with a properly working seat belt. A lawyer can help identify the type of defect in your seat belt, and prove the manufacturer’s liability for damages.
Elements in a Product Liability Case
If your attorney can show that the seat belt in question contained a defect and that this defect caused or contributed to your injuries, you will not have to prove that the manufacturer was negligent. Strict product liability laws in Ohio hold manufacturers strictly responsible for damages a defect causes to consumers, regardless of whether the manufacturer reasonably could have prevented the injury. Working with an attorney can help your case move forward smoothly, and ensure maximum compensation for your damages.
Contact Elk & Elk Today
Elk & Elk’s product liability attorneys have experience handling defective seat belt claims in Ohio. We have the knowledge and resources to get the most for your claim. Speak to an attorney today about your accident. Call (614) 230-0634 or fill out the form below to request a free consultation.