Seat belt sign
June 3, 2026
by
TCAR Education Programs, Stephen Von Weller
A term that refers to bruising or abrasions of the neck, chest, or abdominal wall as a result of forceful contact with a seat belt restraint. This finding may be obvious shortly after injury or may take days to fully evolve. A "positive seat belt sign" strongly suggests underlying injury and is a red flag for tissue and organ trauma.