Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala Police has renewed its road safety campaign with a strong message: “Let every journey end with a smile.” The department is urging the public to understand the life-saving importance of wearing seat belts—not just for drivers and front-seat passengers, but for those in the rear seats as well.

There remains a widespread tendency among vehicle users to enforce seat belt use only for those in the front. This false sense of security often leads rear-seat passengers to skip buckling up. However, the Kerala Police warns that this negligence can have serious consequences. In the event of a collision, an unrestrained rear passenger can be thrown forward with immense force, injuring themselves and endangering those in front.

Seat belts are scientifically designed to protect passengers from the multiple stages of impact in a car crash. While the initial impact may damage the vehicle, secondary and tertiary impacts—when passengers hit each other, the interior of the car, or are ejected—are often far more dangerous. Seat belts significantly reduce the risk of these outcomes by restraining movement and absorbing shock.

According to road safety data, wearing a seat belt can reduce the risk of death in a crash by up to 45%, and the risk of serious injuries by around 60%. The impact is equally critical for rear-seat passengers. Studies show that unbelted passengers in the back are eight times more likely to suffer fatal injuries during an accident compared to those who are restrained.

The Kerala Police has reminded the public that wearing seat belts is not just a recommendation—it is a legal requirement. All passengers, regardless of where they sit, must buckle up. Drivers bear the responsibility of ensuring that every passenger in the vehicle is secured before starting the journey. Law enforcement may impose fines for violations, but the campaign’s focus is on raising awareness and fostering responsible behavior that can save lives.

Officials also emphasized the need to maintain rear seat belts in good condition. Many vehicles come equipped with rear restraints that are often ignored or left unused. Ensuring their functionality is as important as using them.

This initiative is part of the Kerala Police’s broader commitment to road safety, which includes campaigns on helmet use, preventing drunk driving, regulating speed, and promoting pedestrian rights. Public awareness programs are also being rolled out in schools, colleges, and driver training centers to promote safe practices among the younger population.

In conclusion, the Kerala Police has called on every citizen to take road safety seriously. Seat belts are not just a precaution—they are a necessity. Whether traveling short distances or embarking on long drives, every passenger should be buckled up. By making seat belts a consistent habit for everyone in the vehicle, we can ensure that every journey not only begins with responsibility but ends with a smile.