A Look at the Facts Behind Seat Belts
Seat belts are a critical part of vehicle safety. These simple restraints protect drivers and passengers from the serious injuries that might occur after an auto collision. Unfortunately, new statistics show that not all drivers are using their seat belt correctly. To help inspire you to buckle up every day, here are a few interesting and eye-opening facts about seat belts.
Injury Factors
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, just over 2 million adults were treated with serious injuries due to auto collisions in 2009. Of those collision victims, nearly half received less serious injuries or avoided death thanks to their seatbelts. In their studies, the CDC concluded that seat belts are even more important for passenger safety than air bags during a collision.
Common Neglectors
Additional data from the CDC reveals which drivers are most likely to forget their seatbelts. Adults between the ages of 18 and 34 are among the drivers who are least likely to buckle up during a drive. Unfortunately, adults in this age range are also the most likely to be involved in a collision. Gender and environment are also big factors in seatbelt obedience. Men are generally less likely to wear seatbelts, as are drivers who live in rural areas.
State Laws
California is a primary enforcement buckle-up state. Each and every passenger over the age of 16 in a vehicle must be wearing his or her seat belt at all times. If you are caught driving without your seat belt, you face fines of $142 and up. Make sure to review your state’s seat-belt guidelines before heading out on a road trip to avoid hefty fines.
The most important thing to consider after an auto collision is the safety of your passengers. Fortunately, Michael J’s Body Shop can restore your vehicle to its pre-accident condition so you and your passengers can have the safety of a vehicle that is structurally and mechanically sound. Visit our website or call 408-279-2070 to learn more about our collision repair services.