Abstract
Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) data for 1986-1997 and the same set of matching make/model pairs (A with lap only in the rear, matched by make/model to B with lap/shoulder in the rear) used by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) was used in the analysis reported in this scientific poster. Only make/model A/B pairs, which had undergone no change of platform with the addition of lap/shoulder belts in the rear seat, were used. The fatality risk method was used. A conclusion made is that in rear seat outboard positions, the estimated effectiveness of lap only seat belts is about the same as the estimated effectiveness of lap/shoulder seat belts.