A large number of auto accidents and fatalities happen every year due to distracted driving, inclement weather, and driver error. Motor vehicle fatality remains the leading cause of death for teenagers in the United States. However, vehicle occupants of any age can better survive an accident by wearing a seat belt.
Our auto accident attorneys have seen over the years how seat belts prevent terrible vehicular fatalities.
“In an auto accident there are two collisions,” says Mike Wyatt, auto accident attorney. “The collision of the car’s exterior, and that of the person colliding with the car’s interior. A properly won seat belt is the best prevention against a serious injury or fatality in the event of a traffic accident. ”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, automobile fatalities are reduced by 50 percent thanks to the use of seat belts. Reports published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA) show that 12,584 lives were saved in 2013 because of seat belts. There would have been an additional 2,800 lives saved if all unrestrained vehicle inhabitants had been wearing a seat belt during accidents. Unfortunately, many motorists and their passengers still do not see the value of buckling up. In 2012, 55 percent of all passengers and drivers in auto accidents were not wearing their seat belts (NHTSA).
“Many people think they don’t need seat belts when driving short distances, or cite being a good driver as justification,” Scott Mann explains, auto accident attorney. “However, the majority of fatalities on the road occur within a 30-mile radius of the home. Accidents happen quickly without enough time to react. The skill of the driver has no correlation with surviving an accident and not wearing a seat belt.”
It’s extremely important for drivers and passengers to make a habit of fastening their seat belts. Children especially need to be securely fastened and buckled up for every trip. Please call Mann Wyatt Tanksley Injury Attorneys if you have been injured in an auto accident. Our auto accident attorneys are honored to serve you and your case!