At Orange Law Firm, we stand up for car accident victims across Texas. Led by personal injury attorney Karan Joshi, our team knows how critical seatbelt usage is, both for physical protection and for legal claims. Houston seatbelt laws are clear and enforceable, and noncompliance can have serious consequences in the event of a crash.
What Do Houston Seatbelt Laws Require?
Under Texas Transportation Code § 545.413, every person inside a vehicle must wear a seatbelt. Houston seatbelt laws apply to:
- Drivers
- Front-seat passengers
- Backseat passengers of all ages
There is no exemption for where you sit. Everyone in the vehicle must be properly restrained, or they may face penalties and reduced legal protections after an accident.
Limited Exemptions Under the Law
Although Houston seatbelt laws are strict, certain exemptions do exist, including:
- Individuals with a documented medical condition preventing seatbelt use
- Postal workers during official delivery
- Workers in newspaper delivery or sanitation routes
Anyone claiming an exemption should have documentation, such as a signed note from a physician. Still unsure if your situation qualifies? Call Orange Law Firm to get clarity.
Penalties for Not Following Houston Seatbelt Laws
Failure to wear a seatbelt can result in more than just a ticket. If you’re 15 or older, you can be personally fined. Drivers are responsible for making sure any minors are secured.
Fines range from $25 to $250, and violations are often considered in insurance and legal evaluations after a crash. If cited during or before a collision, it could reduce your ability to recover full compensation.
Why Seatbelt Use Matters—Legally and Physically
Houston seatbelt laws aren’t just about compliance—they’re rooted in safety. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shows:
- Seatbelts reduce the risk of fatal injury by 45%
- More than 90% of Americans now wear seatbelts
- From 1975 to 2017, seatbelts saved over 374,000 lives
Seatbelts prevent injuries like:
- Head trauma and concussions
- Spinal cord injuries
- Organ damage
- Fractures
- Internal bleeding
At Orange Law Firm, we’ve seen how seatbelt use can make a real difference in client outcomes. These statistics back up what we witness firsthand in legal cases every day.
How Houston Seatbelt Laws Affect Your Injury Claim
Texas follows a modified comparative fault rule. If you didn’t wear a seatbelt during a crash, the insurance company or court may reduce your compensation, even if the other driver caused the crash.
Here’s how it works under Houston seatbelt laws:
- If you’re partially responsible (e.g., not wearing a seatbelt), your compensation can be reduced in proportion to your fault.
- If you’re more than 50% responsible, you may be barred from receiving any compensation.
Example: A backseat passenger who isn’t buckled gets injured in a crash caused by another driver. The insurance company may argue that the injuries were worse due to the lack of restraint. The court could lower the award or even deny the claim altogether.
Legal Support When You’re Facing Seatbelt-Related Challenges
At Orange Law Firm, we work hard to reduce the legal damage caused by seatbelt defense arguments. Even if you were not wearing a seatbelt, we’ll help you build a strong case by:
- Proving the other party’s liability
- Presenting medical evidence to support injury claims
- Arguing against exaggerated claims of comparative fault
- Negotiating assertively with insurance providers
- Taking your case to trial if needed
Houston seatbelt laws may add a layer of complexity, but they don’t take away your right to seek justice.
Can You File a Claim Without a Seatbelt?
Yes. Even under Houston seatbelt laws, you can still file a personal injury claim if you weren’t buckled in. The other driver’s negligence is still the primary factor.
The court may reduce your damages, but it won’t erase your right to compensation entirely. Don’t let the fear of reduced recovery stop you from contacting a lawyer. Let Orange Law Firm evaluate your case with care and precision.
Safety Tips That Protect You and Your Rights
Follow these tips to stay safe and support your legal standing:
- Buckle up in every seat, every time
- Use child restraints as per state guidelines
- Stay focused behind the wheel
- Follow all traffic rules
- Seek immediate medical help after any accident
- Contact a lawyer as soon as possible
Being proactive helps both your health and your legal claim.
Contact Orange Law Firm Today
If you’ve been injured in a Houston car crash and have concerns about seatbelt-related legal issues, reach out to Attorney Karan Joshi and the team at Orange Law Firm. We understand how Houston seatbelt laws work in real legal battles, and we’ll fight to protect your right to fair compensation.
- Call: 713-885-9787
- Visit: orangelaw.us
- Serving Houston and surrounding communities
Don’t wait. Let us guide you through your claim and help you get the compensation you’re entitled to.
