Two new reports by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reveal that more than 72,000 lives were saved between 2005 and 2009 due to seat belt use, while child restraint systems and minimum drinking age laws probably saved hundreds of people last year alone. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood released the results from the research earlier this week. One report estimates that in 2009 seat belts saved nearly 13,000 people, while motorcycle helmets saved an estimated 1,483 deaths. Research also estimated that more than 600 lives were saved last year by the 21-year-old minimum drinking age laws and more than 300 children aged 4 and under were saved by child restraints. LaHood reiterated that safety is his and the NHTSA’s top priority. For more, visit www.nhtsa.gov.
