When we talk about injury-prevention equipment in a car, seatbelts remain the most effective, saving thousands of lives every day. According to the data presented by CDC (2011), using seatbelts, especially among drivers and front-seat passengers, reduces mortality by 45% and the risk of fatal injury by 50%. Yearly, an average of 15,000 lives are saved just by wearing seatbelts. On the contrary, the likelihood of being thrown from a car in a collision for someone not wearing a seat belt is 30 times higher. Data shows that in a fatal collision, more than 3 out of 4 ejected victims die from injuries acquired from the crash (CDC, 2011).
There are numerous benefits to seat belt use for both drivers and passengers. Some of which are:
- Securing the person in position
- Prevents ejection during collisions
- Distributes impact force that avoids concentrated hit on your abdomen, chest and head
- Helps the body match the speed of the vehicle
- Safeguards the spine and brain
However, there are still disadvantages to wearing seatbelts such as:
- Seat belt syndrome
- A collection of typical injuries linked to the use of seatbelts. It occurs when the safety belt of the victim is activated after a collision that results in the compression of the chest and abdomen causing internal injuries (Girsten, 2020). The five most common seat belt injuries are ribs, chest and sternum, shoulder, soft abdomen tissue, abrasions, and lacerations (Aica Orthopedics, 2014).
- Uncomfortable to some drivers and front seat passengers.
- Others intentionally disregard the seatbelts as it limits movement.
As I have observed in our locality, the compulsory use of seatbelts is not strictly followed, especially in regions where no traffic enforcer is present. I, myself, sometimes do not wear seatbelt when riding the front seat, knowing that the destination is near. Furthermore, I have encountered jeepney drivers not wearing seatbelts and not being penalized accordingly. I believe that this law is poorly implemented in our locality and neglected by the public. Its enforcement should be strengthened given its significant contribution to the safety of the drivers and the passengers.
References:
Blueprint. (2014, October 29). 5 most common seat belt injuries. Chiropractic Tucker AICA. https://www.chiropractictucker.com/5-most-common-seat-belt-injuries/
Jessyca. (2021, July 2). The importance of wearing a seat belt | 5 advantages | Morris Bart, LLC. Morris Bart, LLC. https://www.morrisbart.com/blog/wearing-seat-belt-important/
Policy impact: Seat belts. (2011, January 11). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/transportationsafety/seatbeltbrief/index.html#