There’s an old adage that you can't put a value on human life, but insurance companies manage to make an offer. All kidding aside, on this National Life Insurance Day you may be wondering just how far your policy will stretch for your loved ones the day you’re no longer there to provide for them. But the best insurance you can invest in that keeps you in the family picture – is clicking your seatbelt every trip.
Your seat belt is more than just a fabric strap – it’s a life-saving premium with a successful track history. Seatbelts are one of the most cost-effective and successful safety inventions ever developed. Today, seatbelts reduce your risk of serious injury by 50%. According to the Iowa Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau (GTSB), seatbelts save about 140 Iowa lives each year, making them your best defense in a crash.
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends these seatbelt guidelines:
- Buckle up right: The lap and shoulder belt should be secured across your pelvis and rib cage, but NEVER put the shoulder belt behind your back or under an arm.
- Get the fit: When buying a new car, make sure its seatbelts are a good fit. Ask your dealer about seat belt adjusters or roomier belts. Upgrade older or classic cars by retrofitting with new and safer lap/shoulder belts.
- Protect pregnancies and kids: Find out when your child is ready to use an adult seat belt and use these recommendations for pregnant drivers and passengers.
In 2025, in Iowa, 69 people have been killed in traffic crashes. That’s an increase of 2 since last Friday. In Iowa in 2024, there were 356 traffic-related deaths. To see statistics published daily by the Office of Driver Services, visit the daily fatality report.