How Seat-Belt Use Affects Your Injury Claim in Indiana

When a serious auto accident strikes, your life can change in seconds. The injuries, the medical bills, and the trauma do not just affect your body; they affect your future. One question we often hear is whether not wearing a seat belt ruins your ability to file an injury claim. The answer is complex, and understanding it may determine whether you recover the compensation you deserve.

We are here to protect your rights and explain how seat-belt use influences personal injury claims in Indiana.

Why Seat Belts Matter in Car Accident Cases

Seat belts save lives. They also significantly reduce the severity of injuries in high-impact collisions. In the eyes of the law, wearing a seat belt is not only a safety measure, but it is also considered responsible behavior.

However, failing to wear a seat belt does not automatically disqualify you from seeking compensation. Indiana operates under a comparative fault system, which means that even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover damages. The question is how much.

The Role of Comparative Fault in Indiana Injury Claims

Indiana follows the 51 percent comparative fault rule. If you are found to be more than 50 percent at fault for your injuries, you cannot recover any compensation. If you are 50 percent or less at fault, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Let us say you were injured in a crash and did not wear your seat belt. The other driver ran a red light and slammed into your vehicle. You suffered a head injury that could have been less severe had you been buckled. In this case, the court might decide you were 20 percent responsible due to your failure to wear a seat belt. If your total damages were $100,000, your recovery would be reduced by 20 percent to $80,000.

Does Indiana Law Require Seat-Belt Use?

Yes. Indiana law requires all drivers and passengers to wear seat belts. For those under 16, it is the responsibility of the driver to ensure compliance. Law enforcement can pull you over for not wearing a seat belt, even if you are not committing any other traffic violation.

Although violating this law can affect your injury claim, it does not eliminate your right to pursue legal action if another person’s negligence caused the crash.

The Insurance Company’s Tactics

Insurance companies are not on your side. Their goal is to reduce or deny your claim. One of the first things adjusters do is look for ways to shift blame onto you. If you were not wearing a seat belt, they will use that to argue that you were responsible for your injuries.

That is why you need an experienced advocate. Our accident lawyer in Indianapolis, Indiana, knows how to push back against these tactics. We gather medical evidence, work with crash experts, and build a compelling case to fight back against unfair blame.

How A Skilled Attorney Makes A Difference

At our firm, attorney Vaughn A. Wamsley brings over 25 years of experience to every case. With a deep understanding of Indiana personal injury law and a relentless dedication to justice, we are committed to helping injured clients rebuild their lives. As a car accident lawyer in Indianapolis, Vaughn has earned a reputation for compassionate yet aggressive advocacy.

Our legal team treats each client with care and personal attention. We believe in fighting for every dollar our clients deserve, regardless of whether they were wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash.

What To Do After A Car Accident

If you have been in a crash, here are important steps to take:

• Seek immediate medical attention even if injuries are not obvious
• Report the accident to law enforcement
• Document the scene with photos and witness information
• Avoid admitting fault or giving recorded statements to insurers
• Contact an Indianapolis auto accident attorney as soon as possible

The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be.

Local Insight: Crash Rates And Legal Realities

According to the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute, nearly half of vehicle occupants killed in crashes were unrestrained at the time. In Indianapolis, high-speed collisions on interstates like I-65 and I-70 are common. These roads see frequent crashes, many of which result in serious injury.

As a car crash attorney in Indianapolis, we know that each case is unique. We use locally relevant crash data and firsthand legal insight to strengthen your case and stand up for your rights.

Final Thoughts: Do Not Let A Seat Belt Define Your Future

The moments after a car crash are filled with confusion, pain, and fear. If you were not wearing a seat belt, you might feel helpless. But you still have legal rights, and we are here to protect them.

Reach out to an experienced Indianapolis auto accident attorney who understands how to navigate the law and fight back against insurance companies. Let us help you recover the compensation you need to heal and move forward.

Get A Free Consultation

If you have been injured in a crash, do not wait. Contact us today for a free consultation with a trusted legal advocate.