Distinguishing Between Myths and Facts
There are many myths surrounding seat belt safety. Hover on each card to reveal the truth.
I don’t need to wear a seat belt if I’m taking a short trip.
MythMost crashes happen within 25 miles of your home, and wearing a seat belt is the simplest way to ensure your safety.
FactMy car has an airbag to protect me in a crash. I don’t need to use a seat belt.
MythAirbags are not a substitute for seat belts; using them together offers the best protection for you and your passengers. Without a seat belt, airbags can actually hurt you!
FactUsing a seat belt will make it more difficult to get out of a burning, submerged, or a car crash.
Myth
Wearing a seat belt improves your chances of surviving a crash and escaping safely. Seat belts keep you conscious and make it easier for you to exit quickly.
Fact
Seat belts are inconvenient and uncomfortable to use. I don’t need them.
Myth
There are steps to make your seat belt more comfortable, such as using a seat belt pad for added comfort. The minor inconvenience of a seatbelt is nothing compared to the protection it provides.
Fact
Seat belts can hurt me in a crash. I don’t need it.
Myth
While seat belts can sometimes cause minor injuries, like bruising or soreness, these are far less serious than fatal injuries from not wearing a seat belt.
Fact
I don’t need to use my seat belt if I am in the backseat of a car. Backseat passengers are safer during a crash.
Myth
Unbelted passengers could be thrown forward into the front seat, resulting in severe injuries or death. Everyone, in every seat, should always wear a seatbelt to be protected from serious injury or death in a car crash.
Fact
I don’t need a seat belt because it is safer to be thrown clear of the vehicle if there is a car crash.
Myth
It is much safer to stay inside and protected in the vehicle during a crash. People ejected from vehicles could be thrown against the ground, trees, or other cars, leading to fatal injuries. Seatbelts keep you in the survival zone in case of a crash.
Fact
Wearing a seat belt is a personal decision that doesn’t affect anyone else
Myth
Not wearing your seat belt could put your loved ones and other motorists in danger if there is a crash. Wearing your seat belt is a decision that affects you and those around you.
Fact
If I wear a seat belt, my friends will think I’m not cool or confident.
Myth
Wearing your seat belts shows that you value your life and the lives of others. Also, almost 90% of Americans buckle up, so your friends are probably wearing their seat belts as well.
Fact
I am a good driver and can avoid crashing; I don’t need to use a seat belt.
Myth
Even the best driver faces unpredictable risks beyond their control. You cannot control other drivers or other events on the road. Wearing a seatbelt is a simple, quick, and effective way to protect yourself and others on the road.
Fact
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