Myths about Seat Belt Safety
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), seat
belt use is one of the most effective ways to save lives and reduce injuries in
car accidents. Unfortunately, millions of Americans do not buckle up on every trip.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) states that 13,941 lives were saved by seat belts in 2015. Of the 35,092 people killed in motor vehicle collisions in 2015, 48% were not wearing seat belts at the time of the incident. So why don’t drivers wear their seat belts?
The following are the most common myths about seat belts and the actual facts:
- MYTH: Seat belts are uncomfortable and restrict movement. FACT: Upon correctly adjusting the seat, lap and shoulder belt, most drivers find that discomfort and restrictive movement can be alleviated.
- MYTH:Seat belts prevent you from escaping from a burning or submerged vehicle. FACT: Safety belts can prevent you from getting knocked unconscious, thus improving your chances of escape.
- MYTH: You don’t need to wear a seat belt if you are driving at low speeds. FACT: Say you are driving at 30 mph and you experience a frontal collision. If you do not wear a seat belt, your body continues to travel forward into the steering wheel, dashboard, and even windshield at 30 mph.
- MYTH: Being thrown clear of the wreckage during an accident is the best choice. You are four times as likely to suffer fatal injuries when thrown from a vehicle.
So when it comes to buckling up, wearing your seat belt should be second-nature. Seat belts help save lives and make the roadway a safe place for motorists, passengers, and pedestrians alike.
If you have been injured in a car accident in Florida caused by a negligent driver, contact The Pittman Firm, P.A. and schedule a free consultation today.