“It Takes a Second to Save a Life” is the message based on sound internationally-tested methods to discourage unsafe driving practices.
Seatbelts are not accessories; they save lives and reduce the risk of injury. Drivers and passengers should always wear seatbelts, even on the shortest journey. Regulations to the National Road Traffic Act provide that children up to the age of three must be in appropriate child restraints when travelling in private vehicles, even on the shortest journey.
Thousands of people who die in road traffic crashes each year might still be alive if they had been wearing their seatbelts. Before a vehicle starts moving, drivers and passengers must make sure everyone is wearing a seat belt, and that young children are kept safe in an appropriate child restraints. This prevents needless injuries and deaths. It is a positive action that all of us can all take to keep ourselves and loved ones safe on the roads. It only takes a second to buckle up and save a life.
Research shows that seatbelts are 99% effective in preventing occupants from being ejected from the vehicle in the event of a crash. They also reduce the risk of death in a crash by nearly 45%.
A study conducted by the University of Stellenbosch Emergency Medicine Unit in 2013 revealed that in Cape Town alone:
- Only 25% of the city’s motorists wore seatbelts;
- Only 8,3% of rear passengers use seatbelts; and
- Most severe injuries were sustained by vehicle occupants who were not wearing seatbelts at the time of a collision; and
Children are extremely vulnerable in collisions.
- Children should be seated in the car and in a car seat if possible.
- Never travel with your child on your lap
- Never share a seatbelt with your child
- Your child or any child has no say or choice not to wear a seatbelt, it is the responsibility and legal obligation of the driver to make sure they wear it.
It just a takes a few seconds, to buckle up to help save a life.
Content available on www.arrivealive.co.za
