Serving Edmonds, Washington And Surrounding Areas

Fighting For What Matters Most

New vehicle seat design may save lives

On Behalf of | Jun 29, 2021 | Blog, Car Accidents

Residents of Edmunds and other areas of Washington may want to learn more about how safety advocates are seeking changes in automotive seat design. In 2016, one family’s daughter was critically injured when rear-ended by another vehicle, leaving her with permanent injuries. She is unable to speak or eat and is wheelchair-bound. The family hopes to have passage of the Modernizing Seat Back Safety Act, S. 1413.

What is the Modernizing Seat Back Safety Act, S. 1413?

The legislation calls for the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety to research and craft new standards of safety so that back seat passengers would be better protected in the event of a rear-end collision. Seat requirements have not changed since 1967, so new car designs might save lives and prevent further tragedies.

Average back seats are no stronger than a banquet chair

Motor vehicle accidents happen, and research shows that the back seat is not any stronger than a banquet chair and can break easily when leaned back far enough during an accident. Many safety advocates think that the technology is available to make back seats more protective in an accident.

Data is hard to find

Data suggests that collapsing seat backs killed at least 898 children under age 12 between 1990 and 2014. The way in which researchers collect data does not specifically say that seat back collapse or failure was the cause; it is not a separate category.

Congress needs direction to address this, according to the president of the Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety. The organization is turning to Congress and the NHTSA to address the inaction.

If you or a loved one has received injuries in a car accident, it may be wise to consult an experienced attorney who has your interests in mind. A legal representative may protect your rights and help you seek compensation.

FindLaw Network