Seat Belts for Truck Occupant Safety

Seat belts are recommended for truck occupants to prevent injury and death. Small trucks having conventional seating may use seat belt systems already available for passenger cars. Large trucks with suspension seats may use duplex systems having a seat belt to secure the driver to the seat and an additional belt to secure the seat to the cab structure. All trucks may use available seat belt systems designed for greater convenience and comfort.

The use of installed seat belts in passenger cars and trucks is unacceptably low. Increased usage is being encouraged through educational and motivational programs by many interested persons and groups. Mandatory use of installed seat belts by drivers of over-the-road trucks is proposed. Current developmental efforts of seat belt manufacturers are directed toward providing greater convenience and comfort when seat belts are in use, and simpler, cleaner stowage of the seat belts when not in use.