5 Things You Should Know about Buckling Up

Buckling Up is the Single Most Effective Thing You Can Do to Protect Yourself in a Crash

Safety belts protect you from severe injuries and death in a crash. In 2017, seat belts saved more than 14,955 lives nationwide. If you are involved in a crash, belts help keep you safe and secure inside your vehicle. Without safety belts, you may be thrown out of your car. Being thrown out of a vehicle is almost always deadly.

Airbags DO NOT Replace Safety Belts

Manufacturers design airbags to work with seat belts, not replace them. Airbags inflate with high speed and great force. If you rely solely on airbags, you could hit a rapidly opening frontal airbag with great force, which could cause injuries or even death.

How to Buckle up safely

• You should place the shoulder belt across the middle of your chest and away from your neck.
• Adjust the lap low and tight. It should be placed across your hips, not your stomach.
• Never use your shoulder belt behind your back or under an arm.

Fit Matters

If you are in the process of buying a new car, always check to see that its seat belts are a good fit for you. Ask your dealer if seat belt adjusters or seat belt extenders are available. If needed, they can help you get the best fit. Remember, your safety belts should be snug and comfortable.

Occupant Protection is for Everyone

Everyone should buckle up the right way every trip, every time. Also, when riding in a rear seat – even if state law doesn’t require buckling up in the backseat.

If you are pregnant, check out NHTSA’s “Should pregnant women wear seat belts?” brochure online to learn how important it is for you to protect yourself and your unborn child.

If you have children, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website and read 4 Steps for Kid to learn out how to secure your young passengers. Remember that the rear seat is always the safest place for children. Never place infants in a front seat with an enabled airbag.

Prep Tests for Your State