Seat Belt Use Rose in 2009 to 84%

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) seat belt use rose from 83% in 2008 to 84% in 2009. The use of seat belts has been rising since 1994 accompanied by a steady decline in the percentage of unrestrained passenger fatalities during the day time. Seat belt use for occupants traveling on the weekends increased to 86% in 2009 (an increase from 83% in 2008). Selt belt use continues to be higher in states whose vehicle occupants can be pulled over solely for not using seat belts. States with primary enforcement selt belt laws including Alabama, Alaska, California, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Washington. As of May 31, 2009, primary laws were in effect in 26 states and the District of Columbia and 23 States had secondary laws and 1 state (New Hampshire) had no seat belt laws for adults. Primary enforcement seat belt laws in Arkansas, Florida and Wisconsin did not take effect until June 30, 2009. Minnesota's primary law took effected in June 9, 2009.

It's time for Idaho to consider whether the lives of it's citizens are as precious as those elsewhere. It really isn't about "freedom" as it is an issue of public safety. The cost of failing to where a seat belt is tantamount to a decision of life and death, the cost of which is born by more than the driver and occupants of the vehicle who chose not to wear seat belts in violation of the law.

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For additional information contact:

Alan L. Morton
MORTON LAW OFFICES, CHARTERED
1005 North Eighth Street
Post Office Box 420
Boise, ID 83701-0420
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