Contributory Cause?

The arguments for and against the wearing of seat belts seem so far to have dwelt only upon the physical consequences to the wearer or non-wearer in the event of a crash. The probability of compulsion being a contributory cause of accidents appears to have been overlooked, yet anything which consistently aggravates a driver is not only immediately distracting to the business of driving safely but is more than likely to multiply in its effect to a point where the driver becomes no incensed that the vehicle is used aggressively as a means of giving vent to his feelings.

There is very little difference between a driver who has lost his temper and one who has had a drop too much to drink. Possibly nothing could cause a driver more irritation and discomfort than in being compulsorily trussed up behind the steering wheel, especially if extraneous circumstances are already causing aggravation. However, there could be a compromise. In commerical passenger aircraft a type of belt is used which is neither restrictive nor uncomfortable. It is easily and quickly put none taken off. It is efficient in preventing the passenger from being thrown about during abrupt and unforeseen change in direction of the aircraft. If this type of belt could be legally used in order to comply With the law, it is morc than likely that a large number of people who are at present most strongly against the compulsory wearing of any type of belt, would accept it as a compromise. There would be nothing to prevent any driver from wearing a diagonal belt nerves a full harness and a crash has if he wished to go about so encumbered, but the great thing would be that any driver could exercise his own judgement in choosing the type of belt which most suited him. In consequence he might be a lot less resentful of the hated bureaucrat and therefore happier and safer in his driving.

One final thought. Not all lady drivers are adequately described in Song of Solomon 8 viii, and the aircraft type belt would probably be a lot more comfortable for many, especially on long journeys. Perhaps your lady readers might liken comment. Bridport PATRICK B. DAVIS