This paper is a discussion of the paper "Seat belt usage and injuries sustained" by Kim, K. and Li, L. (see C 3542 (IRRD 873511). The study described in that paper does not control for vehicle weight, a variable that plays an important role in injury outcome. Several other categories that may influence injury or belt use are also not controlled for in the study, such as vehicle age, vehicle body style, manual versus passive restraint and accident type. The seeming overreporting of belt use in Hawaii may exaggerate the benefits of the occupant restraint systems.
Samenvatting