Tips for Seatbelt Use That Can Keep You Safe in a Car Accident
Car accidents are a leading cause of injury and death in the U.S. It is estimated that in 2022 alone, more than 42,000 fatal car crashes occurred in the United States. According to research, one of the factors that contributes to deaths in car accidents is the lack of seat belt use. One of the most effective ways of preventing death and severe injuries in a crash is wearing a seatbelt. It is estimated that seatbelts reduce the risk of death by 45% and the risk of injury by 50%. Research has found that seatbelts save the lives of thousands of people every year. Increasing the use of seatbelts would save even more people. However, it is not enough to just use a seatbelt. For a seatbelt to keep you safe, you must use it properly. Below are some tips for seatbelt use that can keep you safe in a car accident;
#1: Wear Your Seatbelt Correctly
The first crucial thing to do when using a seatbelt is to ensure you wear it correctly. The lap belt part should lie across your hips after fastening, and the shoulder harness should go across the shoulder and chest. Ensure you avoid your neck. Also, do not wear the shoulder harness under your arm or behind your back.
#2: Ensure the Seatbelt Fits Properly
A seatbelt should fit snugly against your body. A seatbelt should not be slipping off your body or lying on your neck. If a seatbelt is loose, it may not be sufficient to keep you safe in the event of a crash. In fact, a loosely fitting seatbelt may increase your risk of injury in the event of an accident. If a seatbelt is not long enough, consider getting a belt extender from your car manufacturer. When it comes to extenders, you must ensure they are the correct length. If an extender is too small, you might not be able to fasten it properly.
#3: Sit Properly
You should always sit upright with your back against the seat. Improper seating positions can result in reduced effectiveness of a seatbelt and increase the risk of injury during a crash.
#4: Replace Damaged or Faulty Seatbelts
Regularly inspect your seatbelts. If your seatbelt is damaged or faulty, replace it immediately. It is recommended that you replace your seatbelts even if you don’t think they are damaged or defective if you have an old vehicle. If you have an old car, your seatbelts might not be as effective as they once were.
#5: Do Not Share Seatbelts
Not only is fastening a seatbelt around two people illegal, but it is also unsafe. Seatbelts are designed to be used by one individual at a time. Never try to share a seatbelt with another occupant. Sharing a seatbelt with another occupant can render the belt useless and increase the risk of injury for both occupants.
Legal Help Is Available in the Event of a Crash
If you are involved in a car accident, keep in mind that you have legal rights and options. Our Orlando personal injury attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm can help you understand your rights and options.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Ocala, Miami, Tampa, Jacksonville, Daytona Beach, Naples, Melbourne, Bradenton, and Fort Myers areas.
Source:
usatoday.com/money/blueprint/auto-insurance/fatal-car-crash-statistics/#:~:text=The%20number%20of%20fatal%20car%20crashes%20in%20each%20state%20has%20risen%20significantly%20over%20the%20last%20several%20years.%20From%202018%20to%202022%2C%20the%20number%20of%20deadly%20accidents%20in%20the%20United%20States%20increased%20by%
