A Study of Demographic, Situational, and Motivational Factors Affecting Restraint Usage in Automobiles

Abstract

Data were obtained from a nationwide telephone survey, extensive face-to-face interviews, and observations to assess the impact of demographic, situational, and motivational variables on seat belt use. The results revealed that almost one-third of the variance in seat belt usage could be explained by one demographic factor (education), one situational factor (the amount of driving done on divided highways), and four motivational factors (comfort ratings of the restraint system, convenience ratings of the restraint system, influence ratings of potential safety message sources, and the willingness to equate seat belt use with other good health practices). In addition, the results revealed that those individuals most likely to have increased their seat belt use across time fall within the 25-34 year old age group, have younger children present in their households, and tend to be more educated. Despite a significant correlation between self-reported and observed measures of seat belt use, the results indicated that self-reported usage figures are somewhat inflated. In over 90% of the observed cases, seat belts were not being worn. The data are useful in helping to design campaigns aimed at increasing restraint system use for both automobile drivers and passengers.