Governors Highway Safety Association
The States' Voice on Highway Safety

Rear Seat Belt Use: Little Change in Four Years, Much More to Do

Seat Belt
GHSA Reports
November 19, 2019

This GHSA report explores adult rear seat belt use rates, state laws and enforcement, and public education efforts.

Summary

This report, published in 2019 and updated in 2020, makes specific recommendations on how states and other stakeholders can and should save lives by increasing rear seat belt use by adults: 

  • States should pass and enforce strong laws and publicize the benefits of belt use in all seating positions;
  • For-hire vehicle services should actively promote belt use to their passengers;
  • Vehicle manufacturers should install rear seat belt use reminders; and
  • NHTSA should develop programs and finalize federal rulemaking to require rear belt reminders. 

The report was researched and authored by Dr. James Hedlund of Highway North, a former senior official with NHTSA.

Download the Report (updated Nov. 2020)
Read the News Release

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