Photo: Rhett RedelingsOn a recent United Airlines flight I was surprised to see that their new planes are equipped not just with lap belts, but shoulder restraints as well.
This just cannot make any sense.
First, planes virtually never crash. Second, when they do crash, it is unlikely that a shoulder restraint will be the deciding factor in whether you survive. Many crashes have an “all or nothing” flavor to them, with no chance at survival or almost everyone surviving.
Third, the evidence from car crashes suggests that lap belts are about 85 percent as effective as lap and shoulder belts — and a car crash is just the sort of impact where you might think a shoulder belt would be most useful because it keeps occupants from smashing into the windshield or steering wheel.
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Maybe it’s to save you from whiplash injuries? I’ve had terrible neck pain ever since I survived my last plane crash
What type of aircraft were you on from United that had the shoulder restraints? And where were you heading?
Thanks
R
Coming next … full body restraints on all planes, to keep the passengers from moving about the cabin. After all, if everyone’s restrained, then no terrorists will be able to do anything.
Of course, this means that passengers on extended flights will need to be fitted with catheters and/or diapers, but a little loss of dignity is nothing in the face of national security and Winning the War Against Terror!
This is ridiculous — I challenge anyone to check the NTSB accident report database and show me one incident that would have been prevented by a lap belt. Hint: you won’t. I’m sure it’s feel-good, and I agree it makes the FA’s job easier. But as for reducing injuries: ha, you’re joking.
Don’t get me wrong: turbulence is a very real danger and I always keep my seat belt buckled. The database above lists many broken ankles and legs (and even a broken neck causing by contact with the ceiling). All of those incidents would have been prevented by a lap belt (and in almost all cases, the passenger or employee was not seated).
As Scott and Otto said, seat belts main purpose is to keep you in the right place when in turbulence or when a tricky landing comes…
“First, planes virtually never crash. Second, when they do crash, it is unlikely that a shoulder restraint will be the deciding factor in whether you survive. Many crashes have an “all or nothing” flavor to them, with no chance at survival or almost everyone surviving.”
If that’s true, then surely the lap belts are also superfluous?
Very simple reason for those belts:
THE ILLUSION OF SAFETY.
Maybe it makes more sense on an airplane than in a car. Afterall, when they guy in front of me lays his seat back its much closer to my face then the windshield or steering wheel are in my car.