Number of Fatalities from People Not Wearing Seatbelts Increasing

seatbelt use decreasingAccording to the Ontario Provisional Police, more people have died from not wearing seatbelts than in the previous year. Officials are enforcing the seatbelt law as the Fall Seatbelt Campaign is underway in an effort to reduce the number of seatbelt fatalities.

Not only must Ontario motor vehicle passengers and drivers wear seatbelts, they must be securely and properly fastened and adjusted. Children who are not of age to wear seatbelts must be fastened into car or booster seats.

Seatbelts, if properly used, may help you better survive a car collision. This reason alone is a good one to buckle up when you get into a vehicle.

If you choose not to wear a seatbelt or to ensure your children are securely fastened in a car seat, you could be convicted and have to pay a fine of $200 to $1,000, as well as receive two demerit points on your driving record that will remain for two years.

Properly wearing a seatbelt implies the seatbelt extends across your chest and the lap belt fits across your lower hips. Do not tuck the shoulder strap behind your arm or back and fix a seatbelt that is twisted.

If you are pregnant, you must wear your seatbelt. Sit up as straight as you can and ensure the lap belt sits across your hips and is not pressing on your stomach.

Airbags do not replace seatbelts. They cannot stop you or your passengers from being flung from your vehicle and they may injure children.

Even in a taxi, you must wear your seatbelt. If you have children with you, they need to be fastened into booster or car seats.

Children ages 16 and up are required to fasten their own seatbelts and will be fined if they are not wearing a seatbelt.

The proper use of seatbelts can save lives and even minimize motor vehicle injuries. Greg Monforton & Partners urge all drivers and passengers to always wear their seatbelt while in a moving vehicle.

If you were injured in a car accident caused by a careless driver, and you suffered injuries despite properly wearing a seatbelt, you may be entitled to compensation. A personal injury lawyer in Windsor, ON from our law firm can review your claim for free and can help determine your legal options.

Contact Greg Monforton & Partners by calling (866) 320-4770.