Seatbelt Safety
Wearing seatbelts to stay safe
Wearing a seatbelt is one of the simplest and most effective ways to stay safe on the road. Unfortunately, many Pakistanis do not recognize the importance of buckling up, with a national usage rate of 20% in 2023. According to the Pakistan Safety Council, the current law in Pakistan mandates seatbelt wearing only for drivers and the fine for not wearing a seatbelt is PKR 500 only! Hence, the highest usage of seatbelts is at 50% and that is only limited to motorway drivers whereas lowest seatbelt usage is of 5% and that is normally observed on rural roads.
Common Reasons for not wearing seat belts
Many drivers consider it uncomfortable, even restraining to wear a seatbelt. They argue that this can distract them from safe driving especially on longer routes.
Some individuals argue that wearing a seatbelt is and should be a personal choice. Many also consider it as a fashion statement, something that is applied by “modern” people or “fancy” people and not a safety measure!
Unfortunately, many cars especially the older models often do not come with a fitted seatbelt and the owners of the vehicle do not want to get it done themselves. Preference of savings over safety!
Since, the enforcement of law is not very potent and the fine is comparatively low, the habit of wearing seatbelts has not developed amongst most Pakistanis.
I am driving so slowly! I don’t need a seatbelt. This is a very common argument amongst drivers who considers seatbelt to be only applicable incase of fast driving.
Seatbelt safety for adults
- Wearing seatbelt is a non-negotiable point: In 2015, about 80% of passenger vehicle occupants who were completely ejected from their vehicle during a fatal crash lost their lives worldwide. Wearing a seatbelt is the most effective way to protect yourself in a crash, and it’s your best defense against impaired, aggressive, and distracted drivers.
- Seatbelts and Airbags Work Together: Airbags are designed to work with seatbelts, not replace them. If you don’t wear your seatbelt, you could be thrown into a rapidly opening frontal airbag, which could injure or kill you.
- Buckling Up Safely: To wear your seatbelt safely, make sure the lap belt and shoulder belt are secured across your pelvis and rib cage. Place the shoulder belt across the middle of your chest and away from your neck, and rest the lap belt across your hips, not your stomach. Never put the shoulder belt behind your back or under your arm.
- Proper Fit Matters: Before buying a new car, check that the seatbelts fit you properly. Ask your dealer about seatbelt adjusters or contact your vehicle manufacturer for seatbelt extenders. If you drive an older car with lap belts only, consider retrofitting it with safer lap/shoulder belts.
Seatbelt safety for pregnant women
As an expectant mother, your safety and the safety of your unborn child are top priorities. Wearing a seatbelt is crucial throughout your pregnancy.
- Should I Wear a Seatbelt While Pregnant?
Absolutely! It’s doctors’ recommended! Buckling up is the most effective way to protect yourself and your baby in the event of a crash.
- How to Wear a Seatbelt During Pregnancy?
To wear your seatbelt correctly:
- Place the shoulder belt across your chest, between your breasts, and away from your neck.
- Secure the belt on the lap below your belly, so that you are not putting any pressure on your belly area. Make sure it fits snugly across your hips and pelvic bone.
- Seatbelts should not be uncomfortable. They, however, need to be snugly fitted.
Important: Never place the shoulder belt under your arm or behind your back. Never position the lap belt over or on top of your belly.
- Adjusting Your Seat for Safety
For a safe and comfortable driving position:
- Adjust your seat to a comfortable, upright position.
- Maintain a safe distance between your belly and the steering wheel.
- Ensure you can comfortably reach the steering wheel and pedals.
- Avoid reclining your seat more than necessary to minimize the gap between your shoulder and the seatbelt.
- Airbags and Seatbelts
Remember, airbags are designed to work with seatbelts, not replace them. Wearing a seatbelt properly is crucial, even if your vehicle has airbags. Without a seatbelt, you risk crashing into the vehicle interior, other passengers, or being ejected from the vehicle.
Seatbelt safety for children
Looking for tips on keeping your little ones safe in the car? Click here to learn more about child safety