Publication Details

North Carolina's occupant restraint law: An evaluation

Type: Paper

Author(s): Reinfurt, Donald W.; Campbell, B. J.; Stewart, J. Richard; Stutts, Jane C.

Pages: 33

Publisher: UNC Highway Safety Research Center

Url: https://finding-aids.lib.unc.edu/40114/

Publication Date: 1987

Address: Chapel Hill, NC

Abstract: A study is reported which evaluated North Carolina's law of occupant restraint. Warning tickets were issued to violators of the law during the 15-month period between October 1, 1985 and December 31, 1986. As of January 1, 1987, violators have been subject to a fine of $25. The study utilized several data files including: (1) statewide accident data, (2) statewide enforcement data, and (3) a probability sample of statewide belt use by front seat occupants. The evaluation examined demographic and geographic patterns of belt use after implemention of the law, compared with the before use. For accident victims, changes in injury distributions were addressed. The results of the study are discussed. The study shows that the legislative intent is being met, and the pattern of benefits is consistent with the events that have so far unfolded. This report also discusses why the injury trends are not more favorable.