Seat belts: your last line of defence in a collision

Nova Scotia RCMP is reminding motorists that buckling up is one of the best ways to improve the chances of survival in a collision.

In 27 per cent​ of fatal collisions Nova Scotia RCMP responded to​ in 2018, at least one person was not wearing their seat belt or was wearing one incorrectly. This tragic reality is why​ the RCMP​ uses enforcement​ to encourage motorists to buckle up. In 2018, Nova Scotia laid over 3,450 charges for not wearing a seat belt or wearing​ one incorrectly.

“Seat belts are designed to protect you in a way that nothing else can and they greatly increase your chances of survival in a collision,” says Cst. Chad Morrison of the Nova Scotia RCMP. “Seat belts are​ very important because they’re your last line of defence.”

A seat belt should be used properly and be in good condition. It should only be worn as directed by the manufacturer (for example, a shoulder strap should not be tucked behind the back). Improperly wearing or altering a seat belt in Nova Scotia can result in the same consequences as not wearing one at all. Fines start at​ $180​ and add two points to your licence.

The driver is responsible for ensuring that passengers under​ 16​ are wearing a seat belt. Children can use an adult seat belt when they are nine years old or​ 4-foot-9​ (145​ cm). Otherwise, kids must be buckled in using a car seat or booster seat. Parents and guardians can help kids stay safe by enforcing and modelling good seat belt habits.

Nova Scotia RCMP will be​ giving you a behind-the-scenes look​ at what​ happens roadside by live tweeting a​ seat belt​ enforcement​ project in March. Follow @RCMPNS on Twitter (https://twitter.com/RCMPNS) for more details, which will be announced soon.

Nova Scotia RCMP asks every motorist to do their part to​ protect themselves and others by buckling up every time they get into a vehicle.

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Source : Media Release