The best defense against serious injury in the event of a motor vehicle collision is wearing a properly fastened seatbelt.
The simple practice of buckling up before putting your vehicle in drive can be the difference between life and death. This month, the Alberta RCMP reminds motorists of the importance of seatbelt safety.
In 2020, 3,184 motorists were pulled over for seatbelt-related offences in Alberta RCMP jurisdictions; 3,047 adults and 137 children were found to be improperly restrained while in a vehicle.
The Alberta RCMP encourages both motorists and passengers to practice the following seatbelt safety tips:
· ensure the lap belt is positioned low across your hips and the shoulder belt is always sitting securely across the centre of your chest.
· do not allow the seatbelt to become twisted. The width of the belt is required to spread the force from a collision across the body (Alberta Transportation, 2017).
· use the seatbelts provided on off-road or recreational vehicles.
Motorists are responsible for ensuring both themselves and passengers under the age of 16-years-old are using proper occupant restraints. The fine for seatbelt infractions in Alberta is $162.
“Every time you get into a vehicle, as a driver or passenger, common sense and the law dictate that you must buckle up. Whether your commute is five minutes or five hours, you should be wearing a seatbelt,” says Supt. Gary Graham, Alberta RCMP Traffic Services.
“It’s one smart decision that you as a motorist can make to significantly minimize the risk of death or serious injury for yourself and your passengers.”
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