In 2021, 26,325 passenger vehicle occupants were killed. About 50% of those killed were not buckled (based on known seat belt use.) With a mortality rate of 47% for those who choose not to, wearing a seatbelt is absolutely critical to driver and passenger safety. However, on Jan. 11, officers responded to a rollover crash near E 171st St and Memorial Dr.
Officers found Shelby Binney, 16, thrown from the car. BPD said it happened around 9:20 p.m. She was not wearing a seat belt and was pronounced dead at the hospital, according to BPD.
The National Traffic Highway Safety Administration said, “2021 data shows that seat belt use is at 90.4%, and unrestrained occupant deaths currently account for 50% of deaths.” Only roughly 10% of all motor vehicle transports have unrestrained operators or passengers.
Elliott Binney identified as her father, is in custody for this crash. BPD said he is expected to be charged with first-degree manslaughter, leaving the scene of a collision resulting in death and passing in a no-passing zone.
Two elementary school children and an adult were taken to the hospital. BPD said they are family members of Binney.
With the exception of New Hampshire, all states and the District of Columbia require adult front-seat occupants to use seat belts. Adult rear-seat passengers also are covered by the laws in 33 states and the District of Columbia. Children are covered by separate laws.
PACE TULSA 