[Author Prev][Author Next][Thread Prev][Thread Next][Author Index][Thread Index]
5-point belts: where to buy and installation
In message <c=US%a=_%p=FirePower_System%l=EXCHANGE-970210203918Z-4755@exchange.nt.firepower.com> Anton Gaidos III writes:
> I still question this law because I do not believe in laws against
> self-abuse. If an adult is willing to drive without
> a belt why stand in the way of natural selection? Provided that person
> is not affecting the life, liberty and pursuit of happiness of others
> why make it a crime.
They _may_ be affecting others' pursuit of happiness.
The Department of Transport figures that an accident involving injury costs the
UK taxpayer around GBP30,000 per injured person, but deaths cost GBP600,000 a
time. This is a long and involved calculation, but most serious academics in
the field seem to accept it. I know, because I'm heavily involved in these
figures trying to get a bypass road justified for my village. You just
wouldn't _believe_ how many people get involved for an unnatural death.
If the "Darwinistic" approach appeals - fine. But take it to its logical
conclusion and withdraw society's financial support from those who act in a
reckless manner. Then come up with a definition of "a reckless manner", and
then figure out how many California lawyers could live for five years off one
disputed case.
The blanket seatbelt law is the fairest way - moreover, in freeing the bulk of
the population from excess hospital bills and liability suits, it's actually
the libertarian way.
--
Phil Payne
phil@sievers.com
Committee Member, UK Audi [ur-]quattro Owners Club