DIRECT OBSERVATION OF SEAT BELT USE IN MICHIGAN: JULY 1986

Results of direct observation study of seat belt use in Michigan conducted in July 1986 were compared with results of previous surveys in December 1984, April 1985, July 1985, December 1985, and April 1986. In the current survey, occupants in cars and light trucks were observed in July 1986. Seat belt use in 1986 increased only marginally from the level observed in April 1986. Restraint use among all motorists observed was 45.3% in July 1986, compared to 43.7% in April 1986. Restraint among occupants ages 0-3 remained at the April 1986 level (73.3%), higher than any other age group. Belt use decreased slightly from April to July 1986 among 4-15 year olds, and increased slightly for motorists ages 16 and over. Use rates in July 1986 were as follows: 35.1% among those age 4-15; 38.5% among those age 16-29; 47.7% among those age 30-59; and 55.2% among those age 60 and older. Females continued to show a higher restraint use than males. As in previous surveys, restraint use varied by region of the state. Belt use remains significantly higher than it was before Michigan's mandatory use law took effect.

• Corporate Authors:

  University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute

  2901 Baxter Road
  Ann Arbor, MI  United States  48109-2150
• Authors:
  • Wagenaar, A C
  • Businski, K L
  • Molnar, L J
• Publication Date: 1986-9

Media Info

• Features: Appendices; Figures; References; Tables;
• Pagination: 62 p.

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Automobiles; Children; Data collection; Females; Laws; Light trucks; Males; Manual safety belts; Restraint systems; Surveys
• Geographic Terms: Michigan
• Old TRIS Terms: Occupant restraint
• Subject Areas: Law; Motor Carriers; Safety and Human Factors;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00495823
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
• Report/Paper Numbers: UMTRI-86-43, HS-039 867
• Files: HSL, USDOT
• Created Date: Jul 31 1990 12:00AM