Maruti Survey: Only 25% drivers use seatbelts

Maruti Suzuki conducted a 'Seatbelt Use in India' survey across 17 cities covering more than 2,500 drivers. The results reveal that only one in four drivers wears a seatbelt.

Over 80% respondents revealed that the fear of fines and police action is the primary reason for wearing seatbelts. The survey also reveals that 81% of women and 68% of men did not wear seatbelts.

Over 90% drivers in Nagpur wore seatbelts, whereas, over 80% drivers in Jaipur and Chandigarh wore seatbelts. These three cities were placed at the top in the survey. Shockingly, in the city of Coimbatore, it was found that not even one of the surveyed persons used a seatbelt. Cities like Indore and Bangalore stood at the bottom of the list.

According to the region-wise report, only 11% respondents in the southern states use seatbelts followed by the eastern states at 22% . For the front passenger, Mumbai is leading with 79% people belting up followed by Jaipur and Chandigarh. The overall usage of seatbelts by the rear passengers stands at a low 4%.

Comparing the vehicle type seatbelt usage - only 12.5% SUV, 28% hatchback, 32% sedan and 36% luxury car drivers use seatbelts. The most common excuse given for not using seatbelts was that they ruin the creases on clothes.

According to studies, in an accident, wearing seatbelts decreases the risk of death by over 45% and lowers the risk of serious injury by 50%. It also reduces the chances of the occupants being thrown out of the vehicle in a crash.

Source - Economic Times