Seatbelts save lives.
Police have been saying that for decades. For 38 years wearing one has been mandatory in Ontario. But for some reason, the message isn’t getting across to everyone.
Const. Diana Cole says she’s not sure why some people steadfastly refuse to buckle up.
For some it’s a comfort issue. Others simply can’t be bothered. Statistics show they work, which is why OPP officers will spend the next couple of weeks on an enforcement blitz across the province.
“It’s been proven that people who don’t wear seatbelts are 40 times more likely to be killed in a crash,” Cole said.
“The law has been around for so many years. It’s not like it’s a new law and people are just getting used to it. We know that wearing a seatbelt saves lives.”
At least this year, there is some positive news to report.
In 2013, 73 people died in collisions in Ontario that weren’t wearing their seatbelts. From 2005 to 2007, more than 100 people died each year. Nearly nine months into 2014, and only 32 people have died under similar circumstances.
But even one death is too many.
“What’s worst is when we attend the scene of a collision and there are people that are injured or killed there and our investigation has shown that they haven’t worn their seatbelts. We know if that wasn’t the case and they were wearing their seatbelt they may still be alive today with their families,” Cole said.
Not wearing a seatbelt and getting caught can be costly.
The penalty for non-compliance is a $240 fine plus the loss of demerit points, which can affect insurance rates.
Forty dollars of the fine is applied to the victim surcharge fund.
Police estimate the financial fallout for not wearing seatbelts has a social impact of $9 billion annually in Ontario.
The loss of life, suffering and injuries is immeasurable.
That’s the main reason behind the blitz, which takes place until Oct. 10.
“Make sure as a driver you do your part, buckle up and make sure all your passengers are properly secured,” Staff Sgt. Rick Witty of the Kirkland Lake OPP said in a release.
