Not only are there significant safety concerns associated with drivers and passengers who do not wear seat belts while in the car, there are also financial repercussions for all of us. Under Virginia law, drivers and front seat passengers over 18 of must wear seat belts; all passengers under 18 years of age must wear seat belts regardless of where they’re seated. While these laws are in place mainly for safety reasons, our Virginia car accident lawyers know the costly results that are shared by all drivers when the few don’t buckle up.
Auto Accidents Can Be Financially Burdensome
According to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles the financial repercussions include:
- Medical costs from traffic accidents are twice as expensive when injured drivers or passengers are not wearing seat belts.
- Higher premiums are shared amongst all drivers to cover crash-related expenses involving drivers and occupants that do not wear seat belts.
In Virginia, the failure to wear a seat belt is considered a “secondary” offense. This means that you could be ticketed for not wearing a seat belt if you are already being pulled over for another violation, such as speeding. In addition, if you have a passenger over the age of 18 in the front seat who is not wearing a seat belt, that person will receive a summons.
Our Fairfax Accident Lawyers Can Help You
At Shevlin Smith, our Virginia motor vehicle accident attorneys want to reinforce the importance of wearing seat belts, because this small precaution can save lives. If you are in a motor vehicle accident in Washington, D.C., or Virginia, call our office to speak with an experienced lawyer about your case. If you are injured in the crash or if there is damage to your motor vehicle, we will work to ensure you are properly compensated. Call our Fairfax, Virginia, office at 703-721-4233. If you are in an accident, don’t delay in getting the help you need.