Should I say, "well, it is my choice to have brake lights on my car, I should be able to disconnect them"
When you lose control of your car, which you very well can do if not belted, you endanger others just the same.
Here in illinois your logic does not hold true. When you are in the back you are at fault REARDLESS so there is not even a need for brakelights. Folling to closely is what is assigned the blame...control of your vehicle thing.
Brake lights horns marker lights and seat belts all serve the same purpose. Safety in the car on the road. Call it whatever you want to but that is the most basic truth.