Seat belt safety

Every time you ride in a car, truck, or van, you make one quick decision that could be the difference between life and death: Seat belt or no seat belt.

The right decision – for drivers and passengers – is simple.

Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death in people ages 1 to 52 in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Seat belts are proven to save lives and reduce injuries during crashes. In fact, the CDC estimates that seat belts reduce the risk of death in crashes by about half.

School’s out for the summer and the rainy season is here, making the roads extra dangerous.

The medical team at Ryder Trauma Center at Jackson Memorial is accustomed to treating patients with critical, life-threatening injuries caused by a motor vehicle crash.

“Not wearing a seat belt can have devastating consequences, and it’s unfortunately something we see all too often at Ryder Trauma Center,” said Daniel Aguiar, nurse manager of the trauma resuscitation unit at Ryder Trauma. “While car crashes can’t always be avoided, you have the power to dramatically reduce your risk of severe injury or death by simply buckling your seat belt.”

Aguiar says he never gets into a car – even if he’s seated in the back seat – without reaching for the seat belt. It’s a simple act that can have a huge impact.

“It doesn’t matter how short the trip, how experienced the driver is, or where you’re sitting in the car,” Aguiar said. “Wearing a seat belt at all times should be a non-negotiable for everyone.”

Another reason to wear your seat belt: It’s the law. Every U.S. state has some form of seat belt law, though the enforcement varies by state.

Remember, the consistent use of seat belts is the single most effective action you can take to protect yourself during a crash.

Here are some tips on how to make seat-belt wearing a habit:

1. Use a seat belt in the front and back seat of every trip, no matter how short.
2. Require everyone in the car to buckle up, including those in the back seat.
3. Ensure the seat belt is worn across the shoulder and chest with little slack. The shoulder belt should never be placed under your arm or behind your back.
4. Pregnant women should wear seat belts through all stages of pregnancy.
5. Ensure your child is securely fastened in the appropriate car seat or booster seat, depending on their age and size.