Why Should You Wear a Seatbelt In Your Car?

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According to the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), out of the 22,215 passenger vehicle occupants killed in 2019, 47% were not wearing seat belts. Despite all the technological advancements over the years, the seat belt is by far the most effective injury-prevention device in your car for the following reasons:

1. Keeps the occupants inside the car
2. Restrains the strongest parts of the body
3. Spreads the force of the collision
4. Protects your brain and spinal cord
5. Works in sync with airbags

1. Keeps the occupants inside the car: It is a longstanding myth that people are better off being thrown out of the car in the event of an accident. Staying buckled up during a crash helps you be safe and secure inside the car and prevents you from being completely ejected from the car, which is almost always deadly. Seat belts also prevent your body from being thrown around inside the car, reducing the risk of hitting your head against the windshield or steering wheel.
2. Restrains the most vital parts of the body: Seat belts are designed to connect the body's strongest parts, the hips and shoulders, thereby providing optimum protection. If your car begins to skid or spin, your seatbelt will hold you in place to take action. Drivers who do not buckle up are more likely to lose control of their car and crash.
3. Helps spread out the force of collision: The shoulder and lap belt helps spread the impact of the crash over a wide area of the body, which reduces the risk of grave injury of passengers.
4. Protects your spinal cord and head: If you hit your head during a crash, you will likely suffer a traumatic brain injury, ranging from a minor concussion to a diffuse axonal injury. Seat belts are designed to protect these vulnerable areas from grave injuries.
5. Airbags and seat belts work in tandem: Airbags alone are not enough to protect you. Instead, they are designed to work in tandem with seat belts. Without a seatbelt, you could be thrown into a rapidly opening frontal airbag, which could severely injure you.

With certain automobile insurance companies, if you refuse to wear a seatbelt and are regularly fined for the same, when your automobile insurance is due, rates could skyrocket as you will be considered a high-risk driver or your policy could even be cancelled.

Seat belts are your best defence against aggressive and distracted drivers and could save lives. Ensure that your seat belt is securely fastened across the pelvis and rib cage. Never put the shoulder belt below your arm or behind your back.

In case you are purchasing a new car, check to see if the seat belt is comfortable and snug across your body, and obtain seat belt extenders if you feel the need. Whether you're driving on the highway or your usual route back home, always wear your seat belt to ensure your safety and those around you.