Backseat Passengers More Likely to Die in a Car Accident
February 13, 2019
Many people believe that passengers in the backseat are less likely to suffer serious injuries than the front seat passengers in the event of a car accident. However, studies show that backseat passengers are actually more likely to be seriously or fatally injured than the occupants in the front seat.
In fact, a study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) found that backseat passengers are 46 times more likely to be fatally injured in a car accident, compared to those in the front seat.
While there have been significant improvements in safety technology over the years, these improvements have not focused on backseat passengers.
Children Are Still Safer in the Backseat
Despite the increased risk of serious, even fatal injuries to passengers in the backseat, it remains the safest place for children under the age of 13. This is because young children are still required to use age-appropriate car seats, which provide added safety and security.
However, as the age of the backseat passenger goes up, so does the risk for fatal injuries caused by a motor vehicle accident.
Seatbelts Save Lives
One of the main reasons for these injuries is the fact that too many of these passengers fail to wear their seatbelt when riding in the backseat. This is particularly true for individuals who ride in taxis, limousines, or Uber/Lyft vehicles.
Even if the vehicle is traveling at a relatively slow speed at the time of the accident, the backseat passenger can sustain serious injuries. For example, when the vehicle is forced to stop suddenly or is struck by another car the impact can force the backseat passenger’s face to slam into the back of the front seat. This is known as “partition face,” and can involve a range of facial injuries from cuts and lacerations to broken bones and brain injuries.
In a study published in the Journal of Transport & Health, researchers found that there was a greater incidence of chest injuries in rear-seat passengers, compared to front seat passengers. In addition, senior adults aged 55 and older were more vulnerable to severe injuries and fatalities, even though they were more likely to wear their seatbelts.
Results of the study indicate that a relatively small percentage of passengers in the United States ride in the back seat. However, researchers stress the importance of wearing seatbelts in the backseat at all times.
In addition, they suggest that improvements need to be made to backseat restraints so that they are more effective at protecting passengers of all ages.
Baltimore Car Accident Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Seek Compensation for Injured Back Seat Passengers
If you or a loved one have been seriously injured in a car accident while riding in the backseat, you are urged to contact the Baltimore car accident lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton at your earliest convenience. We will determine who is at fault for causing the accident and secure the maximum financial compensation you deserve for your injuries. Our dedicated team will guide you through the claims process and ensure that your rights are protected at all times. To schedule a free, confidential consultation, call us today at 800-547-4LAW (4529) or contact us online.
Our offices are located in Baltimore, Columbia, Glen Burnie, and Towson, allowing us to represent car accident victims in Maryland, including those in Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Harford County, Howard County, Montgomery County, Maryland’s Western Counties, Prince George’s County, Queen Anne’s County, Southern Maryland, and the Eastern Shore, as well as the communities of Catonsville, Essex, Halethorpe, Middle River, Rosedale, Gwynn Oak, Brooklandville, Dundalk, Pikesville, Nottingham, Windsor Mill, Lutherville, Timonium, Sparrows Point, Ridgewood, and Elkridge.
