Assessment of Seat Belt Usage-Methods/Results/ Recommendations

Seat belts have been shown to be effective in reducing car crash fatalities and injuries. Their increased usage must be effectively promoted to obtain the available individual and societal benefits. Factors that may increase and maintain seat belt usage are identified as (1) the car occupant's perception of the effectiveness of seat belts, and (2) the comfort and convenience of his installed system. The effects of automatic seat belts and mandatory seat belt use laws are considered.