Safety belts are the most critical piece of safety equipment in your car or truck. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, car accidents are a leading cause of death and serious injury in the United States, and seatbelts are the best way to protect yourself in the event of an accident – regardless of your vehicle type. In fact, the National Highway Safety Administration claims that proper seatbelt use could save more than 1,500 lives and prevent 22,000 injuries every year.
All motorists are at risk of serious injury no matter how safely they drive. If you were in an accident and have questions about the claims process, contact the Truman Law Firm P.C.
A Las Vegas personal-injury lawyer can investigate the circumstances of your accident and determine if you may have valid claims for medical expenses and lost wages. Call us today at 702-821-1821 to schedule a consultation.
In the meantime, read on to learn why truck drivers should always wear their seatbelts:
- It’s the Law
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, it is critical for truck drivers to wear safety belts at all times, even if they are only travelling a short distance. If they have to stop suddenly or end up in a collision, the seatbelt will keep them secure in their seat.
According to the FMCSA, up to 60 percent of all passengers who died in traffic accidents were not wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash. For this reason, drivers of commercial motor vehicles that have a seatbelt assembly point are required by law to wear a seatbelt at all times.
- Driver Skill Does Not Matter
Some motorists believe that seatbelts are only for drivers who are not highly skilled or experienced. According to the FMCSA, this is a common misconception.
Even the best truck drivers should wear their seatbelts at all times. There are several factors outside of your control that could cause a collision, and inadequate restraints in your cabin can have disastrous consequences for you and your passengers.
- Proven Safety Function
When you are not wearing a seatbelt, your chances of dying in a car crash are 25 percent higher. The force of the accident can throw you from the vehicle. Safety belts also prevent you from hitting the steering wheel or windshield, which can cause traumatic brain injuries, fractures and other medical complications.
It is crucial that all occupants inside a truck wear seatbelts, including passengers. According to a 2006 study by the Transportation Research Board, more than 217 occupants die each year after the force of a crash ejects them from truck cabs.
If you sustained injuries in a car accident, call the Truman Law Firm, P.C. today at 702-821-1821. A Las Vegas accident attorney can assess your case to determine if filing a lawsuit would be in your best interests.
