What’s one thing you should never forget before you drive on the road? Your seatbelt! A seatbelt is a safety feature that must not be taken for granted. These belts help reduce serious crash-related injuries and fatalities by half, based on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data.
So, if you’re still one of the many people who don’t buckle up because of the “myths” that surround seatbelt use, you’re in for a (rude) awakening:
Myth 1: They restrict movement
As long as you’re not going to do cartwheels or jumping jacks while seated in the car, your range of motion should be good with a seatbelt on. Moreover, seatbelts have become more comfortable, thanks to technology. Most seatbelts today feature polyester webbing that reduces slack in the event of a crash and has made the seatbelts more comfortable. You can even customize its fit by using clips and extenders.
Myth 2: They trap you in the car during a crash
The second worst thing that could happen when you get in a car crash is to get trapped because of your seatbelt, but that’s not going to happen. Seat belts can actually prevent you from being knocked unconscious as it prevents your head from hitting the dashboard and other areas, which can increase your chances of escaping. The myth is linked to fire and water-related accidents, which rarely occurs.
Myth 3: Short rides don’t require seatbelts
If you’re only going for a couple of blocks to do some errands, then you don’t need to wear a seatbelt anymore. Wrong! A lot of things can go wrong, even on short rides. The thing is, you’re not the only motorist on the road, which means it’s best to be safe.
Moreover, low-key trips can deceptively be more dangerous than long car rides because this is when some individuals usually ease up safety precautions because of the short time it will only take them to get from one place to another.
Myth 4: Putting on seatbelts is time-consuming
Therefore, so is chewing? Putting on your seatbelt will take only a few seconds, five seconds tops. So, safety first! Put on your seatbelt before you hit the road. Otherwise, the seconds you don’t spend wearing your seatbelt could have you end up hours, days, weeks, or even months in the hospital because of a car crash.
Myth 5: I have airbags; I don’t need seatbelts anymore.
Your airbags are there to lessen the impact should you get into a car crash. They are designed to protect a buckled passenger. Your seatbelt will secure you in the proper position that will benefit you should use the airbag deploy. On the other hand, if you’re not wearing your seatbelt, you could slide underneath the airbag, or you could be ejected from the front seat.
Airbags are supplemental protection, and they don’t necessarily cover all situations. That is why you need to use your seatbelts in conjunction with your airbags for maximum safety and protection.
Problem With Your Seatbelts?
Now that you know the myths surrounding seatbelt use, it’s important you wear it all the time. Should you have any problems with your seatbelt, have them repaired by a professional right away.
Whether you need seat belt repair or replacement in Westfield, MA, we can help here at Safety Restore. We rebuild locked and blown seatbelts within 24 hours. Contact us today!
