Car Seat Back Collapse in Rear End Collisions

Manufacturers of modern cars, in an effort to increase fuel economy and reduce manufacturing costs, have allegedly reduced the weight and strength of the seat back latches on the reclining front seats of modern cars.

Unfortunately, this has created a situation in which the seat back can allegedly collapse in the event of a "rear end" collision. When this occurs, the occupant can be ejected from the standard seat belt/shoulder harness, exposing himself and other occupants to possible injury.

The force exerted on a seat back during a rear end collision can be considerable, depending on the speed of the other car and the mass of the occupant. This force can overpower a lightweight seat back latch or recliner mechanism, causing the seat back to collapse backward. When the seat back collapses the driver is suddenly unable to reach the controls or to see the road and can lose control of the car. The driver may even slide out from under his shoulder/lap belts and can bounce around inside the car creating injuries to himself or other occupants or even be completely ejected from the vehicle.

Seat Back Injury Legal Help

If you or a member of your family has been injured in a motor vehicle accident in which the front seat backs collapsed, you may be entitled to compensation. Please click on the link below and your complaint will be sent to a lawyer who will review it at no charge or obligation.
Last updated on Mar-9-07