News -
Buckle Up for Safety: Make a New Year's Resolution to Always Wear Your Seat Belt!
As we step into 2025, make a new resolution to prioritise your safety on the roads. Recent **government statistics reveal that nearly a quarter of those who lost their lives on Britain's roads last year were not wearing seat belts.
Here are some top tips to keep you and your family safely strapped in:
Always Buckle Up: Make it a habit to buckle up every time you get into a vehicle, no matter how short the trip. This simple action can significantly reduce the risk of injury or death in an accident.
Proper Fit: Ensure the seat belt fits correctly. The shoulder belt should lie snugly across the centre of your chest and shoulder, not on your neck or slipping off your shoulder. The lap belt should be low on your hips, not your stomach.
Check for Damage: Regularly inspect your seat belts for any signs of wear and tear, such as fraying, cuts, or a malfunctioning buckle. If you notice any damage, it’s crucial to get it repaired or replaced immediately.
Keep Belts Clean: Dirt and grime can affect the retraction mechanism of seat belts. Clean them periodically with mild soap and water but avoid harsh chemicals that could weaken the fabric.
Use with Airbags: Remember that seat belts and airbags are designed to work together. Airbags alone are not sufficient protection, and without a seat belt, airbags can cause more harm than good.
Professional Check: Have your seat belts checked every year as part of your routine service schedule. If you have been involved in an accident, they will need checking and possibly replacing as part of the repairs.
Child Passengers: Children under 135 cm tall must use the appropriate car seat for their height and weight. You can also be fined if a child under the age of 14 years old is not correctly restrained, either in the correct car seat for younger passengers or in the seat belt for children taller than 135 cm. Check here for more information on the laws surrounding child car seats.
IAM RoadSmart Chief Examiner, Richard Gladman, said, “Ensuring that all passengers, especially children, are properly strapped in with seat belts is crucial for their safety. Seat belt safety laws are in place to protect everyone in the vehicle. When passengers are not properly secured, they are at a much higher risk of injury or even death in the event of an accident. For children, using the appropriate car seats and booster seats is equally important, as these are designed to provide the best protection for their size and age. Let's all do our part to follow these laws and keep our loved ones safe on the road.”
