I’m guessing you’re correct in that certification requirements probably do limit the seat from hitting the yoke. However, pilot dimensions are less regulated.
I recall the possibility being raised that the pilot’s snack tray may have been the link between the pilot and the yoke.
The obvious answer to this bizarre incident, and to prevent anything similar from happening again, is to locate the seat switches on the outboard ide of the seat, so that they are accessible only to the person sitting in the seat.
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There is such a switch that the seat occupant uses. The seat back switch is used to reposition the seat when empty - I think for searing ease.
As I recall, the switch itself loosened to the point where it raised to the point where something like a crew meal tray could trip the switch.
Details, details… and need for sharp eyes in maintainers and pilots.