The Supreme Court has been suggesting whether or not there should be regulations that "require car makers to install shoulder-and-lap seat belts in all rear seats because of cost concerns." There have been individuals who feel the need to sue car makers that install lap-only belts; however, this would affect the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration costs. Recently, there has been a Supreme Court ruling that "barred a lawsuit against American Honda Motor Co. for injuries sustained in a crash involving a 1987 Honda Accord that wasn't equipped with air bags." The ruling was prohibited, but the regulators "intended to promote a variety of passenger restraints in cars." On the seat-belt issue, regulators are encouraging the installation of shoulder-and-lap belts. Still, it is up to the manufacturers to design what is most appropriate for their vehicles.
I feel as though there should be a law that prohibits car manufacturers to install shoulder-and-lap belts in all vehicles. With there being so many automobile accidents, there needs to be a higher concern for automobile safety. This doesn't mean that it will always prevent death or injuries, however it will create a better chance for those in the vehicle. I don't think that it should be up to the auto manufacturers because this is something that concerns the lives of the individuals who purchase the automobiles.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703506904575592562770384770.html?mod=WSJ_auto_IndustryCollection
I believe shoulder-and-lap seat belts should be mandatory for all cars. The excuse of cost should not be of concern when it could be a matter of life and death for passengers. I know that cars must remain affordable and safe at the same time. Adding an additional shoulder belt should be relatively inexpensive compared to improving other car parts. Car safety features have been steadily improving over the years, and I think this safety feature will soon become mandatory.
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