Buckling up in the backseat may save your life

There are new concerns about the dangers of riding in the back seat of cars.

Recently there have been a number of high-profile crashes, including famed mathematician John Nash, with many people not buckling up in the back seat.

And many states - including Pennsylvania - don't require it.

It can happen at any moment. Passengers riding in the backseat of a taxi or car service when suddenly disaster happens.

Many have been there - choosing not to wear seat belts.

Twenty-two states don't require adult passengers in the backseat to wear a seat belt.

In fact, a 2014 survey finds that in the bustling streets of New York City, 62% of taxi riders don't buckle up.

People have the mindset that when they get into back of cab, it's somehow safer and that's absolutely not true, you're just as vulnerable," said Kara Macek, Communication Director for The Governors Highway Safety Association.

Fears have been renewed after John Nash died Saturday along with his wife in the back of a taxi on the New Jersey turnpike. Neither were wearing their seat belts.

Half of all traffic deaths involve people not wearing seat belts.

A seat belt can make a huge difference during an accident in preventing serious injury or even death.

Car service industry experts tell ABC News: "It's the transportation service's responsibility to have a properly inspected vehicle with working seat belts, but it is ultimately the passenger's responsibility to wear the seat belt."

While you may hate buckling up for quick trips, they just might save your life.