Should seat belt buckles be used instead of straps?
Many people use fake seatbelt buckles while driving instead of wearing a seatbelt because they feel cumbersome. Is this advisable?
The seatbelt warning system is equipped on newer car models. Its function is to emit an audible alert to the driver and passengers if they have not fastened their seatbelts when entering the vehicle. Some cars only warn the driver's seat, while others warn both front seats. This is considered standard equipment in some markets.
However, the seatbelt warning system is considered quite annoying by some people because they find it uncomfortable to have to fasten their seatbelts. This is the reason for the emergence of an accessory called a seatbelt buckle replacement, which is now widely sold on e-commerce sites and online car accessory groups on social media.
The fake seatbelt buckle will be installed directly into the existing slot in any car. When plugged in, the car's electrical system will be "tricked" into thinking the passenger has fastened their seatbelt and will no longer emit a warning signal.
It is known that replacement seat belt buckle clips are very cheap, costing only 50,000 - 100,000 VND depending on the type, and are widely available in most car accessory stores in Vietnam. Due to their low price and ability to easily bypass car safety warning systems, these clips sell quite well. Furthermore, e-commerce websites and many car accessory stores sell a wide variety of clips with logos of popular car brands in Vietnam.
Although it may avoid the warning sounds from the seatbelt system and eliminate the need to wear a seatbelt, many people are unaware that this alternative buckle can be deadly in the event of a sudden accident.
When driving a car, wearing a seatbelt is a top priority, even more important than airbags. Seatbelts can save the lives of occupants and contribute to the effectiveness of airbags in the event of a collision.
Therefore, harmful accessories such as seatbelt buckles should not be used as substitutes for seatbelts.
Seat belts have been around since the late 1800s and are now standard equipment on all cars. They protect occupants by holding them in place in the event of a collision that could send them flying into the windshield, potentially resulting in death. Seat belts also provide excellent protection in the event of emergency braking.
Statistics from the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) show that seat belts can reduce fatalities by approximately 50% in serious accidents. Seat belt regulations are strictly enforced in many parts of the world. Even passengers in the back seats, including children, are required to wear seat belts when in a car.
In Vietnam, the government has issued mandatory regulations for drivers and all passengers in vehicles. Points p and q, Clause 3, Article 5 of Decree 100/2019/ND-CP stipulate as follows:
- For drivers, a fine of 800,000 - 1,000,000 VND will be imposed if:
Not wearing a seatbelt while driving; carrying passengers in a car who are not wearing seatbelts (in positions equipped with seatbelts) while the vehicle is in motion.
- Passengers in a car who do not wear seat belts (in positions equipped with seat belts) while the vehicle is in motion will be fined between 300,000 and 500,000 VND.
