THE FACTS
Wyoming Facts
Wyoming’s goal is to increase the 2009 observed statewide safety belt use rate of 67.6% and reduce the number of injuries and fatalities in traffic crashes. Nationally, in 2009, safety belt usage was 84%.
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Wearing your seat belt is the best defense in a crash or against a
drinking driver. Wyoming law states that drivers who are not
buckled up during a traffic stop are subject to a fine of $25.
Unrestrained passengers are subject to a $10 fine.
Wyoming’s goal is to increase the 2008 observed statewide safety
belt use rate of 68.6% and reduce the number of injuries and
fatalities in traffic crashes. Nationally in 2008, safety belt usage was
at 83%.
In 2007, approximately sixty-one percent (60.8%) of those persons killed in traffic crashes were not
wearing seat belts. Safety belt usage saves lives and prevents injuries. Research has found that when
lap and shoulder belts are used properly, they reduce the risk of fatal and serious injuries in passenger
cars by 45 to 50 % and
by 60% in pickup trucks, SUVs and mini vans.
- Safety belts are the single most effective occupant protection device in vehicles. A properly fitting safety belt sits low across the hips without riding up onto the stomach; and the shoulder portion of the belt runs across the collarbone and chest, not against the neck or face.
- In 2007, the estimated economic impact of motor vehicle crashes on Wyoming was approximately $441 million. The five economic cost components are: a) wages and productivity loss; b) medical expenses; c) administrative expenses both public and private; d) motor vehicle damage including property damage; e) employer costs for crashes involving workers. (Source: National Safety Council Crash Cost Estimation 2008 Edition)
- In Wyoming, the type of fatal crash that occurs most often is the overturn, with 24.4% occupants totally ejected and 6.8% partially ejected in 2007. (Source: Wyoming’s Comprehensive Report on Traffic Crashes – 2007)
- People thrown from a vehicle are four times more likely to be killed, and 14 times more likely to sustain cervical spine injury than those who remain within the vehicle. (Source: NHTSA)
- Passengers not wearing safety belts face a higher risk of brain injury in a crash than unbelted drivers according to a study conducted by Dr. Lewis Kaplan of MCP Hahnemann University Hospital in Philadelphia. (An estimated 70 percent of brain injuries in Wyoming are caused by motor vehicle crashes. Source: Brain Injury Association of Wyoming)
Wear your seat belt; don’t risk your life!
National Facts