Wearing a seat belt is a standard safety precaution for drivers and passengers. But even if the tool existed long enough to prove its usefulness, some people still wonder about a few things concerning the safety device. One of which are myths circulating ever since their invention and introduction to the public. However, myths confuse people and may cause widespread mistrust. Therefore, it’s vital to address them immediately, and here are some of them.
1. No Need to Wear Seat Belts Every Time
It sounds illogical, but people believe that there are instances when you can ditch your seat belt. One such myth is about buckling up when it’s raining. Many motorists avoid wearing a seat belt, especially when driving in their neighborhood. However, the fact is that even if you’re going to a local residential area, you still must wear your seat belt.
The law says wearing a seat belt is a safety precaution, but that doesn’t mean you can wear them only when you feel like it. Wearing a seat belt is a habit that drivers and passengers should develop gradually. It should be a habit people should always practice and become part of their everyday routine.
2. Wearing a Seat Belt Becomes Redundant with the Airbag
One of the most common myths is that the seat belt becomes redundant when the vehicle already has an airbag installed. Some individuals think that a seat belt is only suitable for preventing a person from getting thrown out of the car in a crash. However, it is one of the most dangerous myths circulating on the internet.
Wearing a safety belt is a must no matter what. It doesn’t make any difference if the vehicle has an airbag installed or not—wearing the seat belt is still a safety precaution for the driver and passengers. Airbags become more effective if everyone wears a seat belt. While the seatbelt prevents people from getting thrown out the window, the airbags should absorb the impact and keep the passengers’ heads safe from the pressure.
3. Seat Belts Trap Passengers in a Crash
Seat belts indeed prevent a person from getting thrown out of the vehicle, but they don’t trap people in a crash. Instead, wearing a seat belt can prevent passengers from being ejected when the driver loses control of the vehicle, has a sudden stop, or if the car flips over.
Wearing a seat belt can be a bit uncomfortable, but it is much more comfortable than being thrown out the window. Keep in mind that seat belts are not meant to trap people in a crash—but rather keep the driver and passengers safe.
4. Seat Belts Hurt
Seat belts can cause bruising over the areas they cover in the body. However, seat belts have a design that tightens when a collision happens. This obstruction means keeping a person in the vehicle and preventing them from being whipped out of the window. Seat belts are not painful when properly used. The pain will only appear after an accident, and the seat belt has worked as it was supposed to.
Conclusion
Wearing a seat belt is necessary, especially when you’re in a vehicle. It’s an addition to the seat and should be a law to be followed. Therefore, make sure that you always wear your seat belt while you’re behind the wheel, and don’t forget the people in the back seat too.
Drivers and passengers must understand that wearing a seat belt is a vital precaution. It should not be taken as a good luck charm or a must-wear belt just because your mother told you to. The best way to wear a seat belt should coincide with how you usually wear a belt when going for a drive.
SRS Restore is a post-accident service center helping victims of vehicular accidents get back on their feet. We handle seat belt repair, and airbag reset services which are the most common need of people previously in a road mishap. Let us know how to help by contacting us through our website today.