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Auto accident statistics are often divided between injuries and fatalities for drivers and passengers who were wearing a seatbelt, and those who were not. These statistics clearly show that wearing a seat belt makes drivers and occupants more likely to survive what could have been a fatal crash, and also to get out of a crash with fewer or less serious injuries.

Despite these compelling safety facts, not everyone wears seatbelts regularly nor do they insist that passengers in their car wear them. If you or someone you know is reluctant to always buckle up, then you may find the answers to these common seat belt related questions enlightening.

Virginia Seat Belt Questions and Answers

Seatbelts are uncomfortable – do I really need to wear one? Yes, it is very important that you wear your seatbelt every time you get in the car – even if you aren’t driving. Without a seat belt, you are 5 times more likely to be killed in a traffic accident and 3 times more likely to sustain serious injury. Also remember that it’s the law. Virginia requires drivers and front seat passengers to wear safety belts and to ensure that children under age 16 are properly restrained.

What about riding in a bus or a taxi – they don’t always have seat belts? Virginia requires that passengers in the front seat of a taxi always wear a seat belt. Even though belts may not be available in taxi backseats or on buses, you should always wear one whenever possible.

I’m not going very far nor will I be driving very fast – is a seatbelt really going to make a difference? Yes, it will because the force of even a modest impact can increase your body weight to equal thousands of pounds. You won’t be able to brace yourself against the steering wheel, especially if the crash surprises you, which happens often.

If I’m driving the car, do I need to make sure that everyone in the car wears a seatbelt? As the driver, you are responsible for all children under age 16 riding in your car. They must be properly secured in a child safety seat or with a seat belt no matter where they are in the vehicle. As for adults, each adult passenger (16 and older) is legally responsible for him or herself – however, you should encourage all passengers to buckle up for safety.

I have a physical condition or medical issue that makes it difficult or impossible to wear a seat belt – what do I do? You’ll need a signed written statement from your licensed physician identifying you as the exempted person and clearly stating the grounds for exemption.

Can I be pulled over for not wearing my seat belt? In Virginia, no, because failure to wear a seat belt is not a primary offense. However, if you are stopped for another reason and you aren’t wearing your seat belt, then you can be charged with a safety belt violation if you, your front seat passengers, or any children under the age of 16 are not properly restrained.

Whether or not you wear your seatbelt, if you have been injured in an automobile accident because of someone else’s negligence then we can help. Please contact Weisberg & Zaleski today to find out how we can help you receive the justice and compensation that you deserve.

Weisberg & Zaleski, P.C.

112 College Place

Norfolk, VA 23510

Toll Free: (800) 690-0235

Phone: (757) 622-7740

Fax: (757) 533-9223