A major publicity campaign aimed at increasing seat belt usage by rear seat passengers was undertaken in victoria between October 1981 and February 1982. The 'buckle up in the back' campaign emphasised the dangers of riding unrestrained in the rear seat and reminded people that the use of seat belts (where fitted) in the rear seat is required by law. An additional campaign aimed specifically at promoting restraint use in the 0-7 age group commenced early in December and was maintained until mid- February 1982. Restraint surveys were undertaken before, during and after the campaigns. The main findings were: 1) a significant increase in rear seat belt usage from 39.5 per cent to 67.8 per cent; 2) additional improvement in the 0-7 age group; and 3) a significant reduction in rear seat casualties in the 17 and over age group. (Author/publisher)
Abstract