Related: Seat Belts Can Be The Difference Between Life or Death With Kentucky Drivers
The law
Kentucky’s seat belt law became a primary or standard enforcement law on July 12, 2006. This means that drivers can be pulled over by a law enforcement officer and cited if any of the passengers in the vehicle is not wearing a seat belt. Since then, the seat belt usage rate in the state increased from 67.2% to 82.2% in 2011.
Kentucky’s seat belt law clearly indicates the following:
- A person shall not operate a motor vehicle manufactured after 1981 on the public roadways of this state unless the driver and all passengers are wearing a properly adjusted and fastened seat belt.
- A person may not wear a seat belt for medical or physical reasons, but they must possess a written statement from a physician or licensed chiropractor.
Any person who violates the provisions of this law will be fined an amount not to exceed $25.
Statistics
The preliminary statistics from the Kentucky State Police revealed that 98 people have lost their lives on Kentucky roadways during 2013. Out of 86 Kentucky fatal auto accidents, 51% included victims who were not wearing seat belts. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that seat belts reduce the risk of injury to front-seat passenger car occupants by 50% and the risk of fatal injury by 45%. It also reduces the risk of injury to light truck occupants by 65% and the risk of fatal injury by 60%. However, one in five people do not regularly wear seat belts when driving or riding in motor vehicles.
Seat belts save lives
If you don’t wear a seat belt, the odds of you being thrown to a save, survivable location in an accident is sim. In fact, it’s impossible. However, if you and your passengers wear your seat belts properly, your chances of surviving is much higher. It is important that you know how to correctly wear a seat belt. Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Office of Highway Safety stated that the correct way to wear a seat belt is to wear it low, wear it snug and wear it right. The lap portion of the seat belt must be two to four inches below the waist. The seat belt’s shoulder portion should rest smoothly over your collarbone and across your chest and shoulders. In case the belt rubs against your neck, try changing the way you sit. Wearing the seat belt properly is a simple act that can save your life. You should always buckle up!