Seatback Failures/Defective Seatbacks

A defective seatback in a vehicle such as a car, truck or SUV can cause severe injuries and fatalities when it malfunctions during a collision. A seatback defect may result in the failure of a front seat to stay upright when the vehicle is impacted from the rear. The force of such a rear-end collision sends the vehicle forward and thrusts the occupant(s) of the front seat toward the back of the vehicle.

Failure to Remain Upright
If a seatback is inadequate, it fails to remain upright in a collision. The person sitting in that seat can be thrown from the vehicle, completely or partially. If it is the driver that has a defective seatback that collapses backwards in a collision, he or she may be left unable to reach the steering wheel and control the vehicle.

A Danger to All in the Vehicle
In addition, the collapse of front seat may result in the injury or death of a passenger in the seat behind it, whether that passenger is hit by the collapsed seat or by the front-seat passenger hurtling backward. The doors and windows of the vehicle may also be blocked by a collapsed seatback, making it difficult or impossible for passengers to exit the vehicle.

Even When Stationary
Even without a collision, some poorly designed seatbacks fail. A defective seatback can collapse backward when the vehicle is moving forward or even stationary, under the weight of the passenger or due to acceleration of the vehicle. A seatback that fails behind a driver while the vehicle is moving puts the driver and any passengers in an extremely dangerous situation.

A Variety of Seatbelt Defects
The most common seatback defects include:

The failure of the seatback's support system to perform correctly
Deformation of the frame of the seatback
Collapse of the vehicle's floor pan
Deformation of the seat's mounting system
Head restraints detaching upon impact

The automotive industry is acutely aware of the defective seatback issue, but has not responded adequately to calls for safer seatback designs. Until better vehicles are made for the American public, innocent passengers will continue to be injured and killed by defective seatbacks and other lapses in automotive design.

If a Defective Seatback Was Involved in Your Accident
After an accident, it can be difficult to sort out the cause(s) of what happened. To discuss your accident and learn about your legal options, speak with an attorney today.

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