The RCMP is reminding motorists to buckle up, regardless of how long the drive is.
From January to October 2017, Integrated Traffic Units issued 12,720 tickets to drivers and passengers in Alberta RCMP jurisdictions for seat belt and occupant restraint violations.
“The proper use of seat belts and child safety seats is the single most effective way to reduce injury and death in a motor vehicle collision. Research shows that seat belts can reduce fatal and serious injury by as much as 45-65%. The best way to protect yourself, your family and your passengers is by ensuring everyone buckles up,” says Superintendent Gary Graham the Officer in Charge of the Alberta Integrated Traffic Services.
According to Alberta Transportation, in 2015, individuals wearing a restraint during a collision had an injury rate of 6.8%, however those who did not use restraints had an injury rate of 22.4%. The RCMP says the severity of injuries also decreased with seat belt use.
In Alberta, the law requires that occupants must use all available seat belts. The driver is responsible to make sure that all passengers under the age of 16 are using either a seat belt or child safety seat. As well, children under the age of six and with a weight under 40 pounds must be properly restrained in a child safety seat.
Story by Angie Mellen