Whoops he did it again. Punxsutawney Phil, perhaps the most famous rodent in North America today, didn't see his shadow. That means we’re in for an early spring. Every year the fine folks in Pennsylvania repeat this ritual. But whether we’re in for more winter weather or an early spring, one thing is worth repeating every time you get into a vehicle – buckling your seat belt.
No matter where you are seated in a vehicle, buckling up is the single most effective thing you can do to protect yourself in a crash. Here are tips from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to get the most safety benefits when you buckle up.
- The lap belt and shoulder belt are secured across the pelvis and rib cage, which are better able to withstand crash forces than other parts of your body.
- Place the shoulder belt across the middle of your chest and away from your neck.
- The lap belt rests across your hips, not your stomach.
- NEVER put the shoulder belt behind your back or under an arm.
- Before you buy a new car, check to see that its seat belts are a good fit for you.
- Ask your dealer about seat belt adjusters, which can help you get the best fit.
- If you need a roomier belt, contact your vehicle manufacturer to obtain seat belt extenders.
- If you drive an older or classic car with lap belts only, check with your vehicle manufacturer about how to retrofit your car with today’s safer lap/shoulder belts.
And remember, don’t drive angry. https://youtube.com/clip/UgkxGAz3-8YmzCBz0_Bi0vCUWJcvJmfhQjbG?si=m76EWEN8yc0rzMEN
So far in 2024 in Iowa, 14 people have been killed in traffic crashes. That’s an increase of five since last Friday. In Iowa in 2023, there were 378 traffic-related deaths. To see statistics published daily by the Office of Driver Services, go to the daily fatality report at https://www.iowadot.gov/mvd/stats/daily.pdf