Seatbelts are Essential

Millions of car accidents occur every year. That means thousands of collisions happen each and every day. According to the latest statistics, approximately 32,000 individuals die in motor vehicle crashes each year. Accident fatalities are the leading cause of death among Americans between the ages of 1 and 54. Even beyond fatalities, approximately 2.2 million drivers are treated in emergency departments every year as a result of injuries incurred from a motor vehicle collision.

The Danger is Real

Clearly, the danger is real. Accidents happen not only every day, they happen every minute. It is important for us to takes steps to reduce the number of accidents that do occur, but it is likely we will never be able to eliminate car accidents altogether. What we can do, is reduce the risk of injury and death associated with car accidents. We already know the best way to do this, and it is simple – use seatbelts.

Seatbelts Save Lives

Seatbelts save lives. It is a fact. Well over 55 percent of individuals who die in car crashes were not wearing seatbelts. Seatbelts reduce the risk of death or major injury by as much as 50 percent. Would you want to flip a coin for your life? That is what is happening every time someone drives a car without wearing a seatbelt. Even minor accidents become much more dangerous if drivers are not wearing seatbelts.

Getting People to Click It

Young drivers, particularly young male drivers, are statistically the mostly likely to drive without wearing a seatbelt. Teens in states which do not have seatbelt enforcement laws are also much more likely to be driving without wearing a seatbelt. Seatbelt law enforcement has been proven to make a difference. Seatbelt education is also becoming a larger priority. Personal responsibility is always your strongest tool. If you are driving in a car with someone who is not wearing their seatbelt, say something. You could be saving their life. They will thank you tomorrow.