Why is seatbelt use so important?
Prevents injuries and significantly reduces the risk of severe injuries.
It’s Virginia law and City policy. Not wearing your seatbelt at work can result in disciplinary action.
Failure to wear your seatbelt can jeopardize workers’ compensation claims.
It models safe behavior and builds a culture of safety.
Not wearing your seatbelt has legal and financial implications.
Seatbelt MYTH vs. FACT:
Myth: You are safe in the back seat without a belt. Wrong! Among rear seat occupants, seat belt use can reduce the risk for death by 60%.
Myth: Buckled drivers are safe even if their passengers are not wearing belts. Wrong! Multiple studies show the increased risk of death for those wearing seat belts when people in the back seat are not.
Myth: Larger vehicles, such as pickup trucks, will protect you in crashes if you aren’t buckled. Wrong! The research shows the opposite - that there are more unrestrained pick-up truck deaths versus unrestrained car deaths.
Myth: Airbags replace seat belts. Wrong! Airbags may further reduce the risk of death or injury when used in conjunction with a seat belt.
Myth: There is no need to wear a seat belt if you aren’t driving that far or that fast. Wrong! Most accidents happen close to home at lower speeds. Even routine trips can turn deadly. According to the NHTSA, most fatal accidents happen within 25 miles from your house and may involve speeds of less than 25 mph.
Myth: Seat belts trap you in your car during a crash. Wrong! They prevent you from being knocked unconscious, so you are more likely to escape after a crash. This fear comes from crashes involving fire or water, which only accounts for 0.5% of all wrecks. Instead of putting yourself in jeopardy by not wearing a seatbelt, be prepared.
What does proper seatbelt use look like?
Wearing your seatbelt in the front seat and back seat.
The shoulder belt should be across the middle of your chest and away from your neck.
The lap belt should be placed across your hips, not your stomach.
NEVER put the shoulder belt behind your back or under your arm.
Team Norfolk, remember to always buckle up, no matter what!