Seat belts save lives Published Nov. 28, 2012 By 2nd Lt. Alicia Wallace 45th Space Wing Public Affairs PATRICK AFB, Fla. -- This week, the 45th Space Wing reinforces once again the importance of seat belt use. Seat belt use is not only mandatory on a military installation, but it is also a state law. According to the Insurance institute, there are mandatory safety belt laws in all states except New Hampshire. The fine for not wearing a seat belt in Florida is $30 for adults and $60 for children. According to the 45th Space Wing Ground Safety Office, 53% of people who die in auto mishaps nationwide are not wearing seat belts. In fiscal year 2012, the 45th Space Wing has had three personnel in major motor vehicle accidents where all were wearing seat belts. One of the vehicles rolled, and the individual involved in that accident only lost 4 days from work with only minor injuries. "Everyone has heard this before but it is worth restating-seatbelts save lives," said Christopher Olesnevich, 45th Space Wing Ground Safety Manager. "There is no excuse for driving or riding in a vehicle without one. Don't let the one time you need your seatbelt be the one time that you fail to use it." According to PAFB and CCAFS seat belt checks, 99% of the base population is wearing seatbelts while operating a vehicle on base. Now that the wing has made it through the "Critical Days of Summer," please continue to remember seat belt safety through the winter holiday season.