Seatbelts are lifesavers. They should keep you safe in car accidents, and laws require you to wear one during car rides. But what happens if you get into a car crash and were not wearing a seatbelt? Can you still file a negligence claim? The answer is yes, but it may reduce your compensation.
Types of compensation you can claim
There are generally two types of compensation people may collect after a car accident. Medical expenses cover the medical treatment you need for your injuries, including hospital stays, doctor visits, medication and physical therapy.
If you cannot work because of your injuries, you may also file a claim for lost wages. Usually, you can compute your lost wages by multiplying your hourly wages by the number of hours you missed because of your injury. If you work on a salary, you can calculate the percentage of your yearly income missed.
How much compensation will I get?
Your compensation depends on the severity of your injuries and how much the court believes not wearing a seatbelt contributed to them. If your injuries are minor, not wearing a seatbelt may not affect your compensation much, while severe injuries may reduce your settlement.
Before filing a claim, it may be best to speak with professionals to understand the actual amount you may receive. Wearing a seatbelt is always the best course of action for your safety. Still, if you were in a car accident, it is crucial to understand your rights and options. Even if you were not wearing a seatbelt during the accident, you may explore the possibility of pursuing fair compensation for your injuries.
