Myths About Seat Belts

Myth: Seat belts can trap you inside a car.

Fact: It actually takes less than a second to take off a seat belt. This belief often stems from the fear of being trapped in a car on fire or one sinking in water. However, a seat belt may keep you from being knocked out.

Always wear your seat belts and make sure that the passengers in the vehicle are properly belted too. Seat belts can reduce injuries and prevent deaths.

Myth: Seat belts are good on long trips, but I don't need them if I'm driving around town.

Fact: Half of all traffic deaths happen within 25 miles of home. Don't take chances with your life or the lives of your passengers. Your chance to escape will be better if you are conscious. Buckle up every time you drive.

Myth: Some people are thrown clear in a collision and walk away with hardly a scratch.

Fact: Your chances of surviving a collision are five times as good if you stay inside the car. A seat belt can keep you from being thrown out into the path of another car.

Myth: I'm only going to the store. My little brother or sister doesn't need a child's car seat—it's too much of a hassle.

Fact: Car collisions are the number one preventable cause of death for children. Buckle them up in an approved safety seat. It's worth it, and the law requires that you do.