The in basket: Margaret Hereth asked me at The Willows senior apartments the other day whether a pacemaker scar that makes wearing a seat belt over the shoulder uncomfortable would allow a person to legally were it under her arm rather than over it.
The out basket: State Trooper Russ Winger, my contact for WSP enforcement issues, replies that RCW 46.61.688 confers that privilege. It reads, “This section does not apply to an operator or passenger who possesses written verification from a licensed physician that the operator or passenger is unable to wear a safety belt for physical or medical reasons.”
Re: safety belts/pacemakers.. I have found that a lambs wool sleeve placed on the shoulder strap and adjusted to cover the pacemaker site relieves the pressure of the strap. I also feel safer knowing the pacemaker is somewhat protected in the event of an accident. This works on passenger side as well as driver’s seat. These sleeves can be found at most auto parts stores.