In 2012, 86 percent of drivers are using their seat belts, compared to 84 percent in 2011, according to the National Occupant Protection Use Survey. NOPUS is an annual survey carried out by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Seatbelt use has been increasing since 1994. Statistics show that, as more drivers wore seatbelts, the rate of daytime car accidents causing the deaths of unrestrained passengers decreased.
In the southern states, seatbelt use jumped from 80 percent in 2011 to 85 percent this year.
The numbers show states with certain seatbelt laws have higher rates of seatbelt use. These laws are called primary seatbelt laws, and they empower police officers to pull you over for the primary reason of not wearing a seat belt. Other states have laws allowing an officer to cite you for not wearing a seat belt only after you are pulled over for some other reason.
Drivers and passengers of all ages should be properly restrained in your vehicle. Wearing a seat belt when you are in the car is one of the most effective ways to prevent serious car accident injuries.
To learn more about car accident claims in Orlando, Florida, please contact the Law Offices of Michael Barszcz, M.D., J.D., to schedule a free initial consultation.