Unbuckled in Back: An Overlooked Issue in Highway Safety

Resource Type

Spotlight on Highway Safety

Most strategies for encouraging seat belt use by adults focus on drivers and front seat passengers, but rear seat belt use by adults is lower than front seat belt use and warrants attention. In 2013, 883 unbelted rear seat passenger vehicle occupants age 8 and older died in traffic crashes in the United States.

This report takes a close look at the issue by examining rear seat belt use rates, state laws and enforcement, and public education efforts. It makes recommendations for states to help boost rear seat belt use through programs and policies.

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Infographics Available for Download

PDFs of the following infographics are available for download under "Resource Downloads" below.

Rear Seat Passengers 3x More Likely to Die if Unbelted 883 Unrestrained Died in 2013 Rear Belt Laws by State Rear Belt Use Higher in States with Laws Rear Seat Belt Use in Fatal Crashes