Safety Belts and their Effectiveness

    1. More than 46,000 people die on the nation's highways every year of which in excess of 38,000 die in motor vehicles and          nearly 25,000 in passenger cars.

    2. It is estimated that of the 4,000,000 that are injured, 3,766,000 are occupants of motor vehicles. Many of those injured          suffer permanent disability or are scarred for life.

    3. The severe injuries sustained in motor vehicle collisions are primarily in the chest (36%), followed by head injuries (26%).
        The spinal column injuries correspond to 6% of the total severe injuries.

    4. If this accident trend continues, during a typical 75-year lifespan you will most likely:

  • Experience a traffic crash.
  • Have a 50 per cent chance of suffering a disabling injury.
  • Have one chance in 50 of becoming a fatality.

    5. The safety belt is still the most cost-effective life-saving and injury-reducing device for all types of motor vehicle accidents.

    6. For example, with an effectiveness of 70%, safety belt usage will most likely:

  • Save 9,140 lives each year.
  • Reduce and prevent 327,000 injuries annually.

    7. Conclusion, use your safety belt, do not leave home without buckling it!

 

Adapted from: Department of Transportation and Public Works USA