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Seat Belts Fact Sheet

Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death among those age 5-34 in the U.S.1 More than 2.3 million adult drivers and passengers were treated in emergency departments as the result of being injured in motor vehicle crashes in 2009.2 Adult seat belt use is the most effective way to save lives and reduce injuries in crashes.3 Yet millions of adults do not wear their seat belts on every trip.2

Parent and caregivers can:

•Use a seat belt on every trip, no matter how short. This sets a good example.
•Make sure children are properly buckled up in a seat belt, booster seat, or car seat, whichever is appropriate.
•Have all children age 12 and under sit in the back seat.
•Never seat a child in front of an air bag.
•Place children in the middle of the back seat when possible because it is the safest spot in the vehicle.

Everyone can:
•Use a seat belt on every trip, no matter how short.
•Encourage everyone in the car to buckle up, including those in the back seat.