Connecticut House Bill HB05848

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/23
• Refer: 1/18/23

Caption

An Act Concerning The Admission Of Evidence Relating To Seat Belt Use In Civil Matters.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would have the potential to impact civil litigation significantly, particularly in cases where occupant safety and behaviors during accidents are scrutinized. By allowing juries to consider whether a seat belt was worn, the bill could lead to adjustments in how damages are awarded and how fault is determined. It could also contribute to a cultural shift towards safer driving practices, as individuals may be more likely to wear seat belts if they know it can affect legal outcomes.

Summary

House Bill 05848 aims to amend the existing laws regarding the admissibility of evidence related to seat belt use in civil lawsuits. The bill specifically proposes that evidence demonstrating whether a person was wearing a seat belt at the time of an accident should be allowed in court during trials. This change intends to acknowledge the relevance of seat belt use when determining liability or fault in civil cases involving automobile accidents.

Contention

The primary point of contention surrounding HB 05848 is the implications of using seat belt evidence in civil trials. Proponents argue that it is a reasonable adjustment that reflects current safety protocols and behaviors, which can impact the consequences of car accidents. However, opponents may raise concerns about fairness, arguing that this could lead to victim-blaming and influence jury perceptions improperly. Critics could assert that fault should be determined by the action of the other driver rather than the actions of the injured party, potentially complicating legal proceedings.