Sam, Nathan, and Eddie work on a roofing crew together. One day last July they were on their way from a jobsite to the shop after a very hot and physically-demanding day at work. Whenever the three rode together Sam always drove. After all, he was the most senior employee and he had a clean driving record. On the way to the shop the three workers talked about the Carolina heat and how many more days they thought it would be before they finished-up the job that they were on. As they talked, Sam saw a traffic signal ahead that was about to turn red. He decided to stop rather than taking his chances. However the driver behind him did not have the same intentions and plowed violently into the back of the truck. None of the three roofers had their seatbelts on. The initial impact threw them back against their seats. But when Sam slammed on his brakes to avoid being pushed into the intersection they were thrust forward. All three of them were shaken-up from the accident, but didn’t report having any injuries. However, Nathan did not show up for work the next morning. Later that day, it was learned that Nathan had gone to the local emergency room and was receiving medical attention for head and neck pain from the accident.
DISCUSSION NOTES
Nathan’s neck injury may have been prevented had he been wearing a seatbelt. Wearing seatbelts not only help prevent injuries, they also make it easier for the driver to maintain control of the vehicle.
Do you wear a seatbelt every time that you are in a vehicle? If not, why?
Have you or anyone you know ever been involved in a traffic accident while not wearing a seatbelt? If so, what happened?
Why is it important to wear a seatbelt even if you are a very safe driver?
This accident occurred in North Carolina. Had the police officer who responded to this accident chose to do so, he could have issued a citation to each of the three employees for failing to wear a seatbelt.
Seatbelts are also required when operating any machinery such as a lift. Use one and make it a part of your daily routine.
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