Seat belts saves lives- buckle up this festive season
CHRISTMAS MESSAGE BY THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF LAND TRANSPORT AUTHORITY, FLAGON BEKKER
If you are among the thousands of Fijians hitting the highway this festive season, remember to buckle up. With Christmas fast approaching, there is sure to be more activity on the roads, with Fijians looking to get their holiday shopping done, or engaging in joy-rides to go see the lights and decorations in their neighbourhoods and beyond.
However, this can also lead to accidents, which is why the Land Transport Authority of Fiji (LTA) reminds everyone to always buckle up, whether you are a driver or passenger.
“With all the holiday rush and travel, there is no better time to highlight the importance of always wearing your seat belts,” said LTA CEO, Flagon Bekker.
“Seat belts save lives – protecting us from the fatal impact of a sudden stop or collision with another vehicle on the road.”
“Unfortunately, despite fines being instituted for not wearing seat belts, people continue to violate the law, putting their lives at risk.”
“As a driver, it is your responsibility to ensure that you protect yourself and your passengers by buckling up every time you make a trip no matter how short the distance,” emphasised Mr Bekker.
Wearing seatbelts is crucial; it prevents one from being thrown out of the vehicle, hitting the windshield and banging around the vehicle or hitting the steering wheel or door which may cause serious injuries and even death.
Follow these simple tips to ensure that you, your family, and any passengers you may have in your vehicle are safe this festive season:
■ Always buckle up
■ Be the responsible one – make sure that all your passengers are buckled up regardless of how far you’re travelling, before agreeing to drive
■ If you have small children riding in your vehicle, it is imperative that they are fastened safely into a car seat and/or properly buckled up
■ Check for age, height and weight guidelines for how to properly strap-in the younger ones
The next time you get in a car, remember that putting on a seatbelt can help save your life.
Source: Land Transport Authority