In recent years, automakers have added a variety of features to make cars safer to ride in. However, many of these features are designed to help those riding in the front of a car. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, or IIHS, says that more needs to be done to protect rear passengers traveling on Kentucky roads and highways. Doing so may be even more important in an era when people hire drivers from companies such as Uber or Lyft.
It isn’t uncommon for people in an Uber or Lyft vehicle to sit in the back seat and not buckle up. However, failure to do so could increase their risk of getting hurt in a car crash by 8%. Even if an individual does use a safety belt, there is no guarantee that he or she won’t get hurt in an accident. According to an IIHS study of 117 car accidents, roughly one-third of crash victims experienced chest injuries.
The use of crash tensioners can minimize the chances of a chest injury, but tensioners aren’t always included in rear seats. Safety belts have also been designed to work in tandem with a vehicle’s air bags, but they are typically located in the front of a vehicle. According to a representative from the Center for Auto Safety, automakers should do more to educate riders on the risks of riding in a rear seat.
Individuals who are involved in car accidents caused by negligent drivers may be entitled to compensation for medical bills or other damages related to chest, back or head injuries. An attorney may be able to use photos, videos or other evidence to show that a victim’s injuries were caused by the actions of another person or entity.
