Samenvatting
The efforts, successful or unsuccessful, by various countries to increase the seat belt usage rate on their roads, are described. Some of the reasons as to why people fail to wear safety belts are examined. Since 1971, a number of countries have enacted laws to require the use of seat belts and others have failed in similar efforts. These laws, how they were enacted, their enforcement and their results are described. The USA and the U.K. have resorted to public education and publicity campaigns. These programs are also reviewed.