Occupant Protection: Seat Belts, Car Seats, and Helmets

Taking a few moments to properly secure yourself and your loved ones is the single greatest way to increase your likelihood of surviving a crash. Seat belts, car seats, and helmets go a long way in minimizing the consequences of crashes regardless of why they occur. Currently, approximately 89% of drivers and passengers on Missouri's roadways buckle up. Unfortunately, the other 11% account for about two-thirds of vehicle occupants killed in traffic crashes. 

If all drivers and passengers on Missouri's roadways buckled up, an estimated 250 lives would be saved every year. Likewise, motorcycle helmets in Missouri save an average of 60 lives each year. Increase your likelihood to arrive alive by always buckling up or wearing a helmet when riding. 

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Seat Belt Photo

Primary Seat Belt Ordinance Information

A primary seat belt law allows officers to stop motorists who are not wearing a seat belt, without the need for additional law violations. While the state of Missouri does not have a primary seat belt law, cities and counties throughout the state may enact ordinances. Local ordinances can be more restrictive than state law, but not less restrictive. 

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Statistics
60%
Of vehicle occupants killed in 2022 Missouri traffic crashes were unrestrained.
250
Estimated lives saved each year in Missouri if everyone buckled up
38%
Of children younger than 13 killed in 2022 Missouri traffic crashes were unrestrained.
55%
Of Missouri 2022 motorcycle fatalities were unhelmeted or wearing a non-compliant helmet.
Occupant Protection