The Societal Impact Of Not Wearing Seat Belts In Maine

There's debate online about how not using a seat belt only harms those who don't wear one. The Windham Police Department explained some of the effects of not wearing a seatbelt on society. Buckle up, because this is a good lesson for everyone.

Maine Seat Belt Law

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In December of 1995, a Maine law went into effect that requires all drivers and passengers to wear seat belts, regardless of where they are sitting in the vehicle. Today, New Hampshire is the only state in the U.S. that does not have a seat belt law for adults in any seat. Live Free or Die, I guess.

The nationwide law also came with an ad campaign called "Click it or Ticket," reminding people that if anyone is buckled in your car, you may get a ticket. They get the message across, but the acting is kinda terrible.

Effects of Not Wearing a Seatbelt on Society

The Windham Police Department shared stats on why it's so important to wear a seatbelt. You are not the only one who it affects:

Unbelted occupants are 30 times more likely to be ejected during a crash.
More severe accidents require more resources, slowing response times for others.
Longer hospital stays and complex treatments drive up medical expenses.
More severe crashes can lead to higher rates for everyone.
Injuries and fatalities affect workforce participation and family stability.
Non-compliance can lead to fines and compromised personal injury claims.
Long-term disabilities or loss of life devastate loved ones emotionally and financially.
Adults who skip seat belts may influence children to do the same.
Fatal crashes affect entire neighborhoods, especially in small towns.
Without a seat belt, airbags can cause more harm than good.
Seat belts are the foundation of crash protection.

So there you have it. Plain and simple, seat belts save lives. But as you can see, there are plenty of other ways that can cause pain and suffering to everyone in society.

So buckle up for you, your passengers, and everyone else on the road. It's the law.