Motor vehicles are equipped with a vast array of advanced safety features nowadays, but there is still no substitute for the use of a seat belt. In fact, seat belts save over 13,000 lives every year and it is likely that number would be even higher if everyone made use of this life-saving device. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than half of teens and adults who died in motor vehicle crashes in 2015 were not wearing seat belts at the time of the accident.
Unfortunately, many individuals continue to neglect to wear their seat belts due to some prevalent myths that often create personal biases against them. Below, we will debunk some of the most common seat belt myths:
Seat belts are limit your movement and are uncomfortable: The reality is that, when correctly adjusted, a seat belt should be comfortable and not at all restrictive to movement. If your seat belt is causing discomfort, try making some adjustments to it so that it properly conforms to your body.
Seat belts do not allow you to escape from your vehicle during a crash: A seat belt can actually prevent you from losing consciousness during a crash, which means you will have a far greater chance of escaping your vehicle than you would if you were not wearing your seat belt.
If you are thrown clear of a wreckage, you have a better chance of survival: If you are thrown from your car during an accident as a result of not wearing your seat belt, you are actually four times as likely to be fatally injured.
Buckling up takes too much time: It only takes about three seconds to buckle up, so even if you end up having to buckle up 20 times a day, this still only adds up to a single minute. You are not saving any time by choosing not to buckle your seat belt.
Seat belts are unnecessary when you are driving at a slow speed: Keep in mind that even if you are driving at 30 mph, your body will continue to travel forward into the frontal interior of the vehicle if you are unbelted during a collision. This is equivalent to the velocity you would experience if you fell from a three-story building.
CAR ACCIDENT ATTORNEY IN TULSA
At Richardson Richardson Boudreaux, PLLC, our personal injury lawyers understand car accidents are overwhelming and can produce terrible life-changing results. That is why our team is prepared to represent you to ensure you receive the compensation you need and deserve. We have the experience, knowledge and insight to hold the responsible party accountable for your injuries.
For a skilled and compassionate legal advocate, call our office today at 918-492-7674 to schedule a free consultation.