43% of young people killed in car crashes made the same mistake, according to a recent analysis conducted by the AA Charitable Trust. The study highlighted the alarming fact that more than two out of five young passengers who tragically lose their lives in car accidents were not wearing seat belts. This research covered the period between 2019 and 2023, revealing that 43% of car passengers aged 17-29 who died in crashes on Britain’s roads were unbelted, compared to an overall figure of 27% for passengers of all ages.
Moreover, the analysis found that 29% of young drivers who lost their lives in crashes were also not wearing a seat belt, with a significant majority of 95% being male. A survey of 1,734 new and learner drivers further indicated that a concerning percentage admitted to being less likely to wear a seat belt as a passenger on short journeys or even driving without a seat belt themselves. This disregard for basic safety measures has serious consequences, as highlighted by the AA Charitable Trust.
Drivers caught not wearing a seat belt can face penalties, including a £100 on-the-spot fixed penalty notice or fines of up to £500 if the case goes to court. The Trust has called for even stricter measures, advocating for new drivers caught driving without seat belts to receive six penalty points, potentially leading to a loss of licence. Edmund King, the charity’s director, emphasised the critical importance of wearing a seat belt as the most effective way to protect oneself and others in the vehicle.
Lilian Greenwood, the future of roads minister, also expressed grave concern over the preventable tragedies caused by not wearing seat belts. She highlighted the significant number of young lives lost due to this simple oversight and reaffirmed the commitment to road safety initiatives like the Think! ‘Click’ campaign. This campaign aims to remind young people of the life-saving importance of wearing seat belts on every journey to prevent unnecessary fatalities.
One heartbreaking real-life example of the consequences of not wearing seat belts is the story of Phoebe Johnson from Swadlincote, Derbyshire, who tragically passed away in a car crash just days before her 18th birthday because she was not wearing a seat belt as a passenger. Her mother, Nicky Johnson, shared their family’s devastating experience and stressed the importance of campaigns advocating for seat belt usage to prevent other families from enduring similar tragedies.
The Think! campaign has been instrumental in raising awareness about the risks of not wearing seat belts, with poignant adverts illustrating the potential life-threatening outcomes of being unbelted during a crash. The shocking statistics and personal stories underscore the urgent need for increased education and enforcement to ensure that all drivers and passengers prioritise their safety by buckling up every time they are on the road.
The call for stricter penalties and heightened awareness campaigns comes as a response to the critical issue of preventable deaths and serious injuries due to not wearing seat belts. The collective efforts of road safety organisations, government initiatives, and public advocacy are essential in promoting a culture of safety and responsibility on the roads. Ultimately, prioritising seat belt usage is a simple yet crucial step towards preventing unnecessary tragedies and protecting lives on the road.