Airbags and seatbelts save lives

Despite the prevalence of airbags in vehicles, seatbelts still save lives. Of the Ontarians who have died in a car accident, subsequent investigations have shown that a large number could have survived by wearing their seat belt.

By law every person travelling in a motor vehicle – even pregnant women — must wear a seat belt or use a child safety seat. The penalty for seat belt infractions is a fine between $200 and $1,000 and two demerit points. Drivers are responsible for ensuring that passengers under 16 years of age are using the seat belt or an appropriate child car seat.

To be most effective the shoulder belt should be worn closely against the body, over the shoulder and across the chest — never under the arm. The lap belt should be firm against the body and low across the hips.

Contact the staff at our local office for more safety tips.