Numerous studies have shown that seat belts can save lives if they are being used at the time of an auto accident. However, new drivers often feel as if they are perfect behind the wheel and don't need a seat belt, which can be a concern to parents and Virginia auto insurance companies alike.

A recent survey conducted by The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and a leading insurance provider found that teens are more likely not to wear a restraint if they live in states that only have secondary seat belt laws. These regulations enable police officers to ticket drivers and, depending on the state, passengers, if they do not sport seat belts, but only if they have been stopped for another driving infraction.

Contrarily, 32 states, the District of Columbia and 5 territories have "primary" laws allowing police to pull a vehicle over if they see drivers and some passengers are not wearing restraints, the Governors Highway Safety Association reported.

The survey found teen drivers in states with primary laws wear their seat belts 12 percent more often than those in other states, and 15 percent of passengers are more likely to wear restraints in the numerous regions with primary regulation.

Virginia, according to the GHSA, is a state that does not have a primary seat belt law regarding adults. Under age drivers and passengers in the front seat, however, are required to wear them per regulations, but only until 18 years of age.