Recognizing that increased safety belt usage is by far the most cost-effective highway safety measure that can be undertaken by any state, this project describes how states can initiate action to collect major dividends in cost and human welfare. A manual with supporting 35 mm slides was developed describing techniques that could be used by state legislators and state officials to bring about increased belt usage. The manual consists of 12 chapters, the first of which provides an overview of safety belt effectiveness. The next chapter describes a statewide coordinated plan to increase belt usage. Each of the final ten chapters focuses on a major area where belt usage could be encouraged. The proposed techniques are linked to the state agencies having primary responsibility for the area. Topics covered include police traffic services, accident investigation, traffic accident records, traffic courts, infant and child restraints, periodic motor vehicle inspection, driver licensing, driver and traffic safety education, codes and laws, and public information and education. Most of the proposed techniques could be implemented within already existing authority, although a few would require at least limited legislation.
Abstract