Passenger Safety – Sarasota Auto Accident
March 7, 2016
Advice from your Sarasota Auto Accident Attorneys
Carpooling, going out to dinner, taking your kids to school – these are all common scenarios where people drive with passengers in their vehicles. While driving can feel like second nature and is something that many of us do on a daily basis, when there is someone next to you or in the backseat, it is important to remember that they are putting their life in your hands. To help protect your friends and loved ones, here are some tips for passenger safety. For immediate help, call the Sarasota Auto Accident Attorneys at Jodat Law Firm, located in Sarasota, Bradenton, Tampa, Clearwater, and Venice.
Interacting with Passengers
DO: Talk to Passengers While Keeping Your Eyes on the Road
While experts warn about the risks of both handheld and hands-free cell phone use, the National Safety Council notes several differences between talking on the phone and talking in person. It is generally ok to talk to your passengers, but you still need to keep your eyes on the road.
DON’T: Let Your Passengers Distract You
So, don’t let your passengers distract you with maps, videos, photos, funny faces, or other visuals. Adult and child passengers alike may get bored and try to engage you in non-driving-related activities. For everyone’s safety, you should politely decline and stay focused on the task at hand.
Seat Belts
DO: Encourage Your Passengers to Wear Seat Belts
While Florida law does not require all passengers to wear seat belts, it is well-documented that seat belts save lives. Consider encouraging all of your front and back-seat passengers to wear seat belts every time you drive.
DON’T: Let Seat Belts Get Hidden Behind the Back Seats
To this end, make sure that your seat belts are available for use at all times. In SUVs and other vehicles with folding seats, seat belts often end up getting stuck in, behind, and under the cushions. Make sure your passengers always have the option to wear their seat belts.
Child Safety Seats
DO: Buckle Your Child’s Car Seat Securely
If you are driving with a young child, it is important to make sure that you have a car seat that is appropriate for the child’s age. The car seat needs to be securely fastened to your vehicle, and the child’s seat belt should hold them snugly in the seat. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for installing and using a car seat or booster seat.
DON’T: Take Out Your Child’s Booster Seat Too Early
Finally, don’t rush it when it comes to taking your child’s booster seat out of your vehicle. The federal government recommends keeping children in booster seats until they are at least 57 inches tall. If the seat belt lays across your child’s neck or stomach (as opposed to the chest and thighs), you still need the booster seat. A properly-fitting seat belt is essential to protecting your child in the event of a car accident.
Sarasota Auto Accident Attorneys
For more information about passenger safety, or if you have been injured while riding in someone else’s vehicle, we encourage you to give us a call. Jodat Law Group is a personal injury law firm serving the greater Tampa area. To schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced Sarasota Auto Accident attorneys, please contact us today.