ICBC is reminding drivers and passengers about the importance of wearing a seatbelt – and for good reason. While 95 per cent of British Columbians buckle up, the consequences for the remaining 5 per cent aren't pretty.

ICBC says that from 2004 to 2008, on average 1,601 people were injured and 106 were killed yearly in crashes in BC when the victim was not wearing a restraint.

The Corporation has released five key points about seatbelts.

Number 1 – They are the best protection. Seatbelts continue to be the single most effective protective device in your vehicle. An unbuckled 150 lb adult involved in a 50 km/h frontal crash with a stationary object will strike other occupants, the interior of the vehicle or be ejected with the equivalent force of a 3.5 ton truck.

Number 2 –They keep kids safe.  A correctly used child seat reduces the risk of being killed in a crash by 71 per cent and the risk of serious injury by 67 per cent. As of July 1, 2008, all children over 40 lbs. must be in booster seats until they are 4'9” tall or age nine.

Number 3 – Don’t forget to take notice.Even drivers who are buckled up have five times the risk of dying in a crash if their rear seat passengers are not wearing seatbelts, according to a Japanese research paper. Eighty per cent of the deaths from these types of crashes could have been eliminated if the rear seat passengers had been buckled up.

Number 4 – Never double buckle. Always use a seatbelt for its intended use – never restrain multiple passengers with one belt. The force of a crash will throw both passengers violently together as their bodies attempt to occupy the same space.

Number 5 – Lock it up. All unrestrained objects – pets included – are a hazard in the event of a crash. If you need to transport your pet, use an animal carrier and if possible, restrain the carrier. Never leave unrestrained objects in your vehicle as they can become projectiles in a crash.

The fine for not wearing your seatbelt in BC is $167 – including a 15 per cent victim surcharge.