The traffic safety focus for the month of March is Occupant Restraints.
Whether you are a driver or a passenger, buckling up is one of the simplest things you can do to protect yourself in a collision. Seatbelts help secure you in your vehicle in case a collision occurs. Using a seatbelt reduces the chance you will be injured in a collision, as well as decreases the severity of your injuries. The one second it takes to fasten your seatbelt could save your life.
Seatbelt Facts:
- From 2016 to 2020, there were 219 unbelted fatalities in Alberta.
- About 1/5 of those fatalities were those aged 18 to 24 years old.
- During 2020, 41 people died and 265 people sustained injuries because of not being properly restrained at the time of the collision.
- In 2020, restraint users involved in collisions had a much lower injury rate (7.1 %) than those not using restraints (17.6%).
- A 2017 Driver Attitude Survey indicated 95% of Albertans agree that when driving or riding in a motor vehicle, one should always wear a seatbelt.
- Without a booster seat, a child is three and a half times more likely to suffer a significant injury.
- Airbags offer additional protection in collisions but are designed to supplement the safety features provided by seatbelts, always buckle up!
For more information contact:
Sgt. Stacey Fishley
Traffic Unit
Medicine Hat Police Service
Ph: 403-529-8471