Samenvatting
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of the lap belt Bucklebear character as an educational tool to increase motor vehicle safety seat belt use among children. The greatest improvement occurred in the change from "unrestrained" to "safety belt use". A safety seat use and legal enforcement gap was identified for children weighing 40 pounds and under. Areas for further study include the investigation of common misuse errors and correct car seat use for toddlers; child seat belt use in pick-up trucks; and the further definition of the retention of the Bucklebear instruction as it relates to its efficacy as an education tool. (A)