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Abstract
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The Transportation Centre, University of Saskatchewan conducted four surveys between May, 1977 and May, 1979 to determine seatbelt usage rates. The surveys were conducted at sampling stations across the province on urban streets, provincial highways and municipal roads. Information was gathered on various driver, vehicle, restraint system and trip characteristics.
The first survey was conducted in May of 1977 during an extensive publicity campaign. At this time, overall usage was just under 20%. On July 1, 1977, legislation was passed requiring all front seat occupants of motor vehicles to use the available safety restraints. Usage rates in July had increased to over 50%. Motorists were given a three-month "period of grace" to October 1 when enforcement of the law began. Usage rates had increased to 73% in October, 1977. By May of 1978, usage had decreased to just over 55%.
Seatbelt usage was analyzed to determine what relationships exist between usage rates and numerous vehicle, restraint system, trip and driver characteristics. Cross-tabulations were done by usage as related to driver age, sex, education level, driver education, frequency of seatbelt usage and accident experience; number of miles driven per year, roadway speed limit, length of trip, etc. Usage rates were higher for various conditions: driver's aged 26 to 36 years, male drivers, drivers with high school or higher education level, high speed, high volume roadways, etc.
Seatbelt usage rates were compared to the injury and fatality rates in Saskatchewan. Although total accidents and miles driven per year have increased, injury and fatality rates have decreased since the passing of the mandatory seatbelt law.
This analysis has indicated the potential for further reductions in injuries and fatalities if usage rates can be increased and future direction for safety restraint design, publicity campaigns and enforcement measures. |