Automatic Safety Belt Systems Owner Usage and Attitudes In GM Chevettes And VW Rabbits (1980 Models)

Abstract

This study was designed to: (1) evaluate the effectiveness of automatic restraint systems in increasing belt usage, and (2) determine owner attitudes toward the systems. The information gathered from owners of vehicles with automatic systems will assist the NHTSA in determining levels of acceptance, and problems or areas of resistance to these systems. Such information provides an 'early warning' of critical problem areas that need to be resolved before automatic restraint systems become standard equipment in all cars. Data collected are derived from 2,015 telephone interview with owners of 1980 Chevettes and Rabbits with automatic belt systems and 430 interviews with owners of Chevettes and Rabbits with manual belt systems. Findings indicate that the automatic restraint system is highly effective as a use-inducing device. Reported safety belt usage for models with the automatic systems is about twice the reported use for models with manual belts. There are, however, certain problems with the automatic belt systems that are having a negative impact on belt use.