Teaching clubs the correct way to buckle up for safety!

Proper seatbelt use is an important component for reducing traffic fatalities. When positioned correctly, they can also reduce the likelihood of passenger injuries.

A properly worn seatbelt can help prevent internal injuries by spreading the force of a collision across two of the human body’s strongest areas - the pelvis and upper chest. To ensure the proper distribution of force, the lap belt should be positioned across the upper thighs and the diagonal belt should be positioned across the chest. Never allow passengers to slip shoulder restraints behind their body as the lap belt alone cannot prevent a person from being thrown forward and out of the vehicle.

Always perform seatbelt checks before you leave for any road trip, and make sure everyone is properly buckled in before you start your vehicle. Remind drivers and trip supervisors that preteens and teens are more likely to challenge the rules by unclipping their belts when not closely monitored. When talking to young passengers about proper seatbelt restraint use, reinforce that it is not just for their safety, it’s the law!

The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia offers the following tips to support your seatbelt safety programs and discussions with younger passengers.

• Don't start the car unless all occupants are buckled. If occupants unbuckle while you are driving, find a safe place to pull over until everyone is safely restrained.
• Require seat belts for every ride, every time. No exceptions. Let your teen and her friends know that wearing seat belts is non-negotiable.
• Share why safety belt laws do make a difference. According to research, kids are more likely to buckle up when their state has a primary safety belt law. This kind of law allows law enforcement officers to stop a vehicle and issue a ticket when simply observing an unbelted driver or passenger. Let your child know state laws require the use of seat belts. chop.edu