When Safety Fails: Pursuing Justice for Seat Belt Failure Injuries in California

Seat belts are one of the most fundamental and effective safety devices in any motor vehicle. Designed to restrain occupants during a crash, they help prevent serious injuries and save lives. However, when seat belts fail to function as intended, the consequences can be catastrophic. At The Majlessi Law Firm, we represent clients across California who have suffered serious injuries or lost loved ones due to defective or malfunctioning seat belts.

Common Types of Seat Belt Failures

Seat belt defects can occur in various ways, often without warning. Some of the most common failures include:

• Latch Failure: A defective buckle that unlatches during impact or fails to stay securely fastened.
• Retractor Malfunction: When the retractor fails to lock during a crash, allowing excessive movement and exposing the occupant to injury.
• Torn or Frayed Webbing: Low-quality or degraded materials can rip under pressure, rendering the belt ineffective.
• False Latching: The seat belt appears to be latched but is not actually secure—often due to design or manufacturing flaws.
• Improper Placement or Design: Belts that sit too high, too low, or do not properly secure the occupant’s body, increasing injury risk.

Injuries Caused by Seat Belt Failures

When seat belts fail, the resulting injuries can be severe or fatal. Common injuries associated with seat belt defects include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Internal bleeding and organ damage
• Neck and chest trauma
• Ejection from the vehicle
• Wrongful death

These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, long-term rehabilitation, and may result in permanent disability or loss of life.

Legal Liability in Seat Belt Failure Cases

In California, auto manufacturers and their suppliers have a legal duty to ensure the safety of vehicle occupants. If a defective seat belt contributed to your injuries or a loved one’s death, you may have grounds for a product liability claim. Potentially liable parties may include:

• The automobile manufacturer
• The seat belt component manufacturer
• Third-party suppliers or installers

Unlike typical car accident claims, seat belt failure lawsuits focus on defective design, poor manufacturing, or failure to warn consumers of known risks.

How The Majlessi Law Firm Can Help

Attorney Art Majlessi has extensive experience in auto product liability and catastrophic injury cases. Our firm will:

• Conduct a thorough investigation of the vehicle and seat belt system
• Consult with automotive engineering experts
• Gather physical evidence and crash data
• Pursue claims against all responsible entities
• Negotiate aggressively with insurance and defense counsel
• Take the case to trial if necessary to secure justice

Your Rights Matter—Let Us Protect Them

If you or a loved one suffered injuries due to a seat belt malfunction, you deserve answers—and compensation. Our team is ready to fight on your behalf to hold negligent manufacturers accountable and ensure your voice is heard.

Contact us today for a free consultation. There are no legal fees unless we win your case.

📞 Call now:
(310) 724-6222 – Los Angeles
(415) 629-0109 – San Francisco

📨 Or submit your case online for a free, confidential consultation with California’s premier product liability attorney.

Frequently Asked Questions About Seat Belt Failure Claims

What should I do if I suspect a seat belt failed during an accident?

Seek immediate medical attention, preserve the vehicle and seat belt in its post-accident condition, and contact a personal injury attorney experienced in product liability. Do not allow the vehicle to be repaired or destroyed until an expert has inspected the seat belt system.

Can I sue the car manufacturer for a seat belt defect?

Yes. If a defective seat belt contributed to your injuries or a loved one’s death, you may have a valid product liability claim against the car manufacturer, the seat belt manufacturer, or other responsible entities in the supply chain.

What compensation can I receive in a seat belt failure case?

You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, long-term care, and in wrongful death cases, funeral expenses and loss of companionship. Each case is unique and should be evaluated by an attorney.

How do you prove a seat belt was defective?

Proving a defect often involves expert analysis, including crash reconstruction, examination of the belt’s mechanics, and reviewing recall records or design specifications. Our firm works with automotive experts to build strong, evidence-based cases.

Is there a time limit to file a seat belt failure lawsuit in California?

Yes. California’s statute of limitations for product liability and personal injury is generally two years from the date of injury. Delays can weaken your case, so it’s crucial to speak with an attorney promptly to preserve your legal rights.

Disclaimer: The legal information presented on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute formal legal advice. For legal guidance specific to your case, please consult a licensed attorney.