The Unbelted State: What is the Only U.S. State Without a Mandatory Seat Belt Law for Adults?

Introduction

Automobile safety has improved drastically since the introduction of seat belt laws in the 1960s. The use of seat belts by car occupants reduces the chance of serious injury in the event of a crash by up to 50%. Despite these obvious safety benefits, however, there is still one state in the U.S. where seat belt use by adults isn’t required by law – New Hampshire.

Why New Hampshire?

New Hampshire is the only state in the U.S. without a mandatory seat belt law for adults. The state does have laws requiring car occupants under 18 to wear seat belts, but there is no law requiring adults to buckle up. This has been the case for many years, and the reason for it is the state’s long-held belief in personal liberty and autonomy.

New Hampshire prides itself on being a “Live Free or Die” state and its residents operate under the philosophy of self-determination. The New Hampshire legislature has long held the belief that freedom from government interference is a fundamental tenet of their statehood, and this extends in part to the decision not to pass a seat belt law for adults.

The Potential Consequences

While the free-thinking attitude of New Hampshire is admirable, there are dangers to not having an adult seat belt law. Seat belt use is associated with a decreased risk of death and serious injury in car accidents, so the lack of a mandatory seat belt law in New Hampshire could lead to more fatalities and serious injuries than in states that do have such laws.

Furthermore, the lack of a law may create confusion for visitors to the state, who may not be aware that seat belt use by adults isn’t required by law. This could put travelers at a higher risk for injury in the event of a crash.

Conclusion

New Hampshire is the only state in the U.S. without a mandatory seat belt law for adults, a remarkable fact considering the known safety benefits such laws provide. While New Hampshire’s commitment to personal autonomy is commendable, it is important to note that this autonomous stance may have potentially dangerous consequences for drivers in the state. It is important for all drivers, no matter where they’re from, to always make sure to buckle up.