VTI has performed an unbroken series of observations of seat belt usage in a number of central Swedish towns since 1983. Observations during autumn 1993 show that seat belt usage in cars has decreased somewhat since 1992. The decline is most evident in the case of rear seat passengers. During 1992 and early 1993, a series of seat belt campaigns had a positive influence on seat belt usage. The relative downturn observed in autumn 1993 may thus be seen as a consequence of the lack of effective nationwide campaigns during almost the whole of that year. One conclusion to be drawn from the project is that it is probably necessary to encourage seat belt usage continuously through information campaigns. In 1983, usage by rear seat adult passenger was 10%, but increased significantly to 60% when the law on seat belt usage by all adult occupants of cars was introduced on 1 July 1986. From 1986 to 1991, usage increased to 70% and by 1992 to 80%. In 1993, a slight fallback of 3-4 per cent units was noted. The corresponding figure for children in the rear seat is about 10 per cent units higher. Seat belt usage by drivers and front seat passengers has remained on a considerably higher and more consistent level. About 90% of them use their seat belts. (A)
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