Why do some people refuse to wear their seat belt while being aware of the risks?

Question

I have multiple friends that simply refuse to wear their seat belt whenever they ride in a car. I make them wear it when in my car, but in any other situation they choose to go without it. They are all aware of the risks of not wearing their seat belt and the implications of even the smallest car accident, so a lack of knowledge is not the problem. Also, I consider them all quite intelligent people, so the ignorance of such a simple task that can be life saving blows my mind. I cannot see it a denial of evidence because they agree with my side of reasoning, and my question is not specific to my friends, so I am asking why would anyone who knows all the facts still proceed without a seat belt?

Answer 1

Hi,

I wear mine :-)

My thought would be maybe they've been

in an accident; where the seat-belt hurt them.

The seat-belt may have failed to prevent them from

harm. On the other hand cognitive dissonance may be

another avenue to look into; if they don't have a reason

for why they won't wear the seat-belt.

L