According to The National Highway Traffic Safety Administrations (NHTSA), wearing your seat belt serves as the single most effective way to reduce the risk of death and injury in a vehicle crash. Since 1975 seat belts are responsible for saving nearly 300,000 lives! This month on the blog we’re discussing the most important safety measure for both passengers and drivers alike. You guess it – seat belts!
THE FACTS
Research has shown that when used in the correct way, seat belts significantly lower the risk of critical to fatal injuries in car accidents. The NHTSA says that seat belts reduce the risk of fatal injury to front-seat passengers by 45%, critical injury to front-seat car passengers by 50%, fatal injury in light trucks by 60%, and critical injury in light trucks by 65%.
Vehicle ejections are one of the leading causes of death in auto collisions. In fact, more than 75% of ejected passengers die from their injuries. Seat belts prevent drivers and passengers from being ejected. Those who don’t wear a belt are nearly 30 times more likely to be thrown from the vehicle than those that do.
No matter how you choose to look at the statistics, it’s clear that wearing a seat belt is always a good idea.
SAFETY TIPS
While it may seem like common knowledge, there’s no harm in reviewing the proper way to strap a seat belt. After buckling in make sure the shoulder harness is sitting comfortable and snug across your chest and shoulder. You want to keep a minimal amount of slack in the belt. Your lap belt should also be secured both snuggly and comfortably in a low position across your hips. Wearing your belt in any other position increases the risk of injury and death in a collision.
Each state varies when it comes to regular and child seat belt laws. We suggest heading on over to your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles to see what your state requires. Here in Hawaii, both front and back-seat passengers are required to wear seat belts. According to Hawaii’s DMV children under the age of 4 must be secured in a federally-approved child safety seat. Children between the ages of 4 and 8 must ride in either a booster or car seat.
Fastening your seat belt is the most important safety step that both vehicle drivers and passengers will take. No route or destination is worth the risk of driving without a seat belt. Let’s help to reduce death and injury in vehicle collisions by reminding those around us to buckle up. Yes, it’s the law, but it can also save your life.
Get More Tips From K.W. Auto Body
We love to help our customers to simplify their lives. Check out more tips, tricks & hacks from our experts to help you to stay safe and drive with aloha.
I’ve Been In An Accident, Now What?
Even the most seasoned driver may be unraveled and frazzled after getting into an accident. This month we’re giving you our post-accident steps to help you limit the unnecessary worry and stress that comes from being involved in a car crash. It’s important to remember that stress and emotions are high at the time of a collision and that remaining calm is always a great place to start.
5 Enemies to Auto Body Paint
There are lots of chemicals that may permanently damage your car’s paint. Some are well-known enemies while others may surprise you. We’ve said it before, the more you know the better prepared you are to care for your vehicle. This month on the blog we’re dishing 5 surprisingly (yet common) substances that you’ll want to avoid to maintain your pretty paint job.
Germ-Free Driving
We can all agree that these last few months have absolutely flipped our world upside down. Covid-19 has forever changed our lives, and it’s safe to say that keeping the insides and outsides of our vehicles clean is vital. Below are a few car sanitizing tips to keep you driving germ-free.
Car Washing 101
Here at KW Auto Body we consider our car a part of the family, and we do our very best to take care of it. Your vehicle’s exterior is the only line of defense against the elements which makes its regular wash so important. Below are four simple steps to maximize your car washing routine.
3 Tips to Keeping Your Car Clean On A Beach Day
May is in full swing, and while our state is still practicing social distancing to flatten the COVID-19 curve, the ocean never shut down. Even if you’re planning a trip to the beach for a quick in-and-out session, you can guarantee that sand and saltwater will make its back to your car. Below are 3 tips to keeping your car clean on a beach day.
3 Tips For Cooling Down Your Car
One of the very best things about living in paradise is the constant beautiful weather. The sun is shining on most days of the week and we wouldn’t have it any other way. However, with that sweet Hawaiian sun comes the soaring temps. We are firm believers in sun protection – yes, your skin and eyes should always be your first priorities when covering up – but your vehicle should come in a close second. This month on the blog we’re letting you in on our proven tips to keeping your car cool and protected.
Featured Services
We’ve got you covered! Our dedication to fast and friendly service means getting you back on the road as quickly, conveniently & safely as possible. No matter what repairs your car needs, K.W. Auto Body has got you covered.

Computerized Estimates
We offer C.C.C.ONE estimating system along with digital imaging.

Paint & Refinishing
We use Standox and a computerized paint matching system.

Auto Body & Collision Repair
We use Pro Spot Aluminum weld station for specialized repairs.

Unibody & Frame Repair
We are trained to use the car-o-liner computerized measuring system.
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