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When purchasing a vehicle, drivers and passengers expect manufacturers to prioritize safety, ensuring that all components—including seats—are built to withstand the impact of a collision. However, recent incidents have raised serious concerns about the structural integrity of seats in Kia and Hyundai cars and SUVs. Specifically, these automakers have failed to adequately test their seats under real-world crash conditions, putting heavier drivers and passengers at significant risk of severe back injuries.
A Shocking Oversight: Kia and Hyundai’s Seat Testing Flaws
A recent case in Georgia highlights this critical defect. A woman weighing approximately 300 pounds was sitting in a Hyundai when she was rear-ended. The impact caused her seat to break, leading to devastating back injuries. This raises an alarming question: How could a seat fail catastrophically during a crash?
The answer lies in the way Kia and Hyundai have tested their vehicles. Reports have revealed that these manufacturers used crash test dummies weighing only 125 pounds—significantly lighter than the average adult in the U.S. This means Kia and Hyundai never properly evaluated how their seats hold up when impacted by real-world forces involving drivers and passengers of varying body types. This lack of comprehensive testing has left countless people vulnerable to life-changing injuries when their seatbacks fail under crash conditions.
The Dangers of Seat Failure in a Crash
When a seat breaks during a collision, the results can be devastating. Instead of the seat absorbing impact as designed, it can collapse or recline unexpectedly, causing the occupant to be thrown backward or twisted in unnatural positions.
This can lead to:
- Severe spinal cord injuries.
- Herniated or ruptured discs.
- Fractured vertebrae.
- Chronic back pain and mobility issues.
- Traumatic brain injuries from secondary impact.
A properly functioning seat minimizes the force a driver or passenger experiences during an accident. If the structure fails, it increases the likelihood of severe and permanent damage.
Who Is Liable for These Defective Seats?
Kia and Hyundai’s failure to conduct proper crash testing with dummies of varying weights shows an apparent disregard for consumer safety. If you or a loved one suffered a severe back injury due to a broken seat in a Kia or Hyundai, you may have a strong compensation case.
These automakers could be held liable for:
- Medical expenses related to back injuries, surgeries, and rehabilitation.
- Lost wages due to an inability to work after the accident.
- Pain and suffering resulting from long-term physical limitations.
- Permanent disability or reduced quality of life.
Injured Due to a Faulty Seat? The Gold Law Firm Can Help
At The Gold Law Firm, our Memphis personal injury lawyers fight for victims harmed by dangerous vehicle defects, including faulty seats in Kia and Hyundai vehicles. If your seat collapsed during a crash and caused severe back injuries, you deserve justice. Our legal team will investigate your case, hold the automakers accountable, and pursue the maximum compensation you deserve. We work on a contingency fee basis—meaning you don’t pay unless we win.
Call or text (901) 244-5003 or contact us online for your free consultation today, and let us help you take the next step toward recovery. With over 165 five-star reviews, a wealth of client testimonials, and a proven track record of recovering tens of millions in compensation for clients, our skilled legal team is committed to ensuring negligent parties are held accountable.