OCCUPANT RESTRAINT USE IN A MAJOR METROPOLITAN AREA

This study tests the hypothesis that use of occupant restraints by children is significantly different by age, location of car in which the observed (city versus suburb), and driver belt use. The survey concludes that child restraint is associated with age, location of observation, and driver belt use. A disturbingly low rate of safety seat usage, as well as high rate of incorrect use of both safety seats and safety belts is observed. Usage is substantially lower than that reported by federal and state agencies for this area. The need for educational campaigns, and increased availability of low cost seats in the inner city, is strikingly evident. (A) For the covering abstract of the compendium see IRRD 880073.