NCJ Number
197863
Date Published
July 2001
Length
45 pages
Annotation
This report evaluates outcomes related to the increased use of seat belts as part of the Buckle Up America campaign.
Abstract
Focusing on the Buckle Up America (BUA) program, this report evaluates and discusses outcomes of this national seat belt and child safety seat initiative. Developed by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), BUA was begun in 1997 in order to increase seat belt use to 85 percent by 2000 and to 90 percent by 2005, while decreasing fatalities to children under the age of 5 by 15 percent by 2000 and by 25 percent by 2005. Through building partnerships, enacting new legislation, conducting strong enforcement, and expanding public information education, BUA is based on the premise that boosting occupant protection use is the single most effective strategy in saving lives and reducing injuries on American roadways. After discussing the National Occupation Protection Use Survey that provides detailed information on overall shoulder belt usage for drivers and right-front seat passengers, this report describes the reduction in fatalities and injuries that accompanies increased seat belt usage. Focusing on State and local level seat belt law enforcement and legislation, this report discusses improved legislation and increased law enforcement as positively contributing to the reduction in motor vehicle fatalities. After describing the numerous companies that donated time, money, and resources in support of BUA, this report details Executive Order 13043 that requires seat belt usage by Federal employees on the job and all motor vehicle occupants traveling in national parks and defense installations. This report concludes that while much progress has been made by BUA in reducing the number of fatalities associated with vehicular accidents, the program has not yet met its national occupant protection goals.