This paper presents and analyzes the level of safety belt use in 48 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico in 2003. States were identify that improved their use rates the most, and examine rates in the light of two key factors affecting belt use – state belt laws and campaigns conducted to get more people to buckle up. The common methodology was also explained followed by the state surveys, a set of criteria established by NHTSA to ensure statistical accuracy and consistency. In general, the states’ use rates are substantially higher in 2003, indicating the success of the unprecedented level of effort to raise use. An additional state (Oregon) reached the 90% milestone, joining three other states with use rates in the 90’s, and seven states converted a quarter or more of their nonusers to users in the period 2002-2003. (Author/publisher)
Samenvatting