We’ve all heard about serious accidents causing serious injuries, or even death, when in some cases, that outcome can be prevented if the driver wears his or her seatbelt. Seatbelts might seem like the most annoying things in the world at times, but the reality is that they save lives. An accident can happen in a split second, and a seatbelt will prevent injury and death, while also preventing you from receiving a hefty fine. So, the conclusion is that seatbelts are worth wearing.
The statistics state that seatbelts reduce serious injuries in a motor vehicle accident by about half. However, you need to be wearing your seatbelt properly for it to protect you in any way. Here are a few tips that will ensure that you are wearing your seatbelt correctly:
- The seatbelt is meant to cross your chest and your lower hips;
- Ensure that you have a working seatbelt for each person;
- Wear the lap and shoulder belt if you are pregnant;
- Do not twist the seatbelt in any way; and
- Don’t put the shoulder belt strap behind your back or under your arm.
It is also important to note that airbags are not a substitute for seatbelts, and you always need to be wearing your belt in the car.
Seatbelts in Other Vehicles
Even if you are riding in another vehicle, such as a taxi, you must wear a seatbelt. Taxi drivers also have a responsibility to have their seatbelts in working order. However, if you bring a child into a taxi and they need a booster seat, you need to bring your own into the vehicle. A taxi driver is not required to provide customers with a child car seat or booster seat.
Hiring a Toronto Personal Injury Lawyer
Hiring a lawyer for a car accident can be an overwhelming process in your head, but it’s important to note that a lawyer will guide you through each and every step with ease. Unfortunately, we cannot make everyone wear their seatbelt on the road, even though the laws are set in place to do so. So if a car accident does occur and you are not at-fault in the accident, hiring a lawyer for the car accident will save you the stress involved with filing your claims against the accused. Book a consultation with a lawyer for your car accident case at Sokoloff today.
Sources:
http://www.teendriversource.org/stats/support_teens/detail/59
http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/safety/safe-driving-practices.shtml