The following are reasons most often given for not wearing safety belts:
(All statistics based on U.S. data)
Reasons given... Consider...
“Crashes are rare events”36700 crashes occur every day.The more
we drive, the more we are exposed to“rare”
events, even for good drivers.1 in 4 of us will
be seriously injured in a crash during our
lifetime.
“I’m not going far”3of4fatal crashes occur within25miles of
home.
“Belts are uncomfortable”We design our safety belts to enhance comfort.
If you are uncomfortable - try different
positions for the safety belt upper anchorage
and seatback which should be as upright as
possible; this can improve comfort.
“I was in a hurry”Prime time for an accident.BeltMinder
reminds us to take a few seconds to buckle up.
“Safety belts don’t work”Safety belts,when used properly,reduce
risk of deathto front seat occupants by45%
in cars,and by60% in light trucks.
“Traffic is light”Nearly 1 of 2 deaths occur in single-vehicle
crashes,many when no other vehicles are
around.
“Belts wrinkle my
clothes”Possibly, but a serious crash can do much more
than wrinkle your clothes, particularly if you
are unbelted.
“The people I’m with
don’t wear belts”Set the example, teen deaths occur 4 times
more often in vehicles with TWO or MORE
people. Children and younger brothers/sisters
imitate behavior they see.
“I have an air bag”Air bags offer greater protection when used
with safety belts. Frontal airbags are not
designed to inflate in rear and side crashes or
rollovers.
“I’d rather be thrown
clear”Not a good idea.Peoplewho areejected are
40 times more likely to DIE.Safety belts
help prevent ejection, WE CAN’T“PICK OUR
CRASH”.
Seating and Safety Restraints
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