One of the best ways to protect yourself when driving or riding in a vehicle is to wear your seat belt. These simple safety devices may be something you take for granted, but they save lives every day.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explains increasing seat belt use can cut down on the fatalities from auto accidents.
Seat belt laws
Seat belt laws are something states manage. Usually, people riding in the front seat must wear seat belts under the law as well as anyone under the age of 16. However, laws may vary from state to state. It is important when driving in different areas to know the law. If an officer pulls you over and you are not wearing your seat belt, you could receive a ticket.
Campaigns
Law enforcement will often run campaigns to boost awareness about how seatbelts save lives. They will highlight that a seat belt is one of the most important safety devices in a roll-over accident, and it can be the one thing preventing a person from flying outside of the vehicle in an impact. Officers may even run programs where they stop vehicles to check for seat belt use, or they may provide educational events to help people understand the importance of wearing one.
Passing it on
Parents should set a good example for their children by always wearing their seat belts and ensuring children buckle up on every trip. It is important to enforce the law in your own vehicle, even among passengers to ensure everyone’s safety.
Using a seat belt should be automatic when you get into a vehicle. It could be the one habit that will save your life.