Growing up, we never used seatbelts. My siblings and I would sometimes lay in the back window while mom or dad cruised down the highway. Now, it’s become a habit; if I don’t buckle up, it feels like I’m forgetting something. Many lives have been saved and injuries prevented due to the increased enforcement of seatbelt safety throughout the years.
Seatbelt use is the single most important step a person can take to prevent injury in a motor vehicle accident. NOLO gives 5 valuable reasons why a person should always buckle up:
- Seatbelt use is the best defense against hazards such as distracted, impaired or drunk drivers.
- Buckling up is easy as 1,2,3; there is no excuse not to use your safety belt properly. The lap and shoulder belt should be secured across the lap and rib cage.
- Pregnant women, children and people of all ages should use a seatbelt.
- If your seatbelt is not fitting properly, you can talk with the manufacturer about an adjustment.
- Airbags do not replace seatbelts but rather work alongside them for safety purposes.
To learn more about seatbelt safety and lawsuits, read Enjuris’ Personal Injury Lawsuits for Injuries Caused by Seat Belts.
