A Comprehensive Guide to the Texas Seat Belt Legislation
Annual inspections are required of all vehicles registered in Texas by the Texas Motor Vehicle Authority, and seat belts are just one of several items checked. The “Click It or Ticket” Campaign, run by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) every year, celebrated its 18th anniversary in 2020. There have been 6,234 lives saved thanks to the “buckle up” campaign since it began in 2002, and now 91% of Texas always wear their seatbelts.
Using a seat belt reduces the risk of fatality in a car crash by 45% in passenger vehicles and by 60% in a pickup truck, according to the Texas Department of Transportation. In Texas, 14% of drivers have admitted to drinking while driving, putting everyone else in danger. Get help!
Given that you have no say over the activities of other motorists, the best way to protect yourself is to always use a seat belt, whether you’re driving or riding as a passenger. Therefore, let’s talk about why it’s important to use a seat belt, the kinds of injuries that can occur if you don’t, and how to be safe when using a seat belt.
Reasons why Texans should always buckle up
Prevent Deaths
When looking at deaths among Americans aged 1 to 54, car accidents rank first. According to research, front-seat passengers and drivers who always use their seatbelts have a 45% lower risk of dying in an accident. Because you won’t be able to get out of the car and into the highway, where you could easily be killed, this feature is a lifesaver.
Safeguard Against Accidents
Wearing a seat belt reduces the risk of catastrophic injuries, such as those to the brain and spinal cord, which can have long-lasting effects on a person’s health and their ability to care for their loved ones.
Budgetary Expenses Should Be Cut
If you are not wearing a seat belt and are injured in a car accident, you will likely spend three to five times as much time in the hospital as if you had been restrained. Thus, your medical costs will be anywhere from two to seven times as high as they would be for people who were properly restrained in their vehicles. It’s not only about saving money on medical care, though.
Those who refuse to buckle up, in defiance of Texas law, cost all taxpayers money. Taxes and insurance premiums both went up this year.
