The 1981 traffic fatality decrease: Isolation of the affected population.

The number of fatalities in traffic accidents dropped unexpectedly in 1981 after years of increase. Over 90% of the reduction in traffic fatalities for 1981 is associated with a reduction in accidents involving teenagers. The reduction of 1798 fatalities is largely the result of decreased teenage travel and safer travel for young people /increased use of child seats by those under 5 years, a movement to the rear seats of cars by those aged 5 through 9, and an increased use of motorcycle helmets by those aged 10 through 14.