But the RSA has expressed concern that there has been a drop in the rate of seatbelt wearing by rear seat passengers.
Overall, the level of seatbelt use in 2008 was 89 percent. But the figure for rear seat passengers declined by 6 percent to 78 percent over the previous year.
The survey was conducted in 2008 among 16,999 adults and 4,316 primary and secondary schoolchildren across the country.
Rear seatbelt wearing rates for primary and secondary schoolchildren have increased by 4 percent and 9 percent respectively on 2007 figures.
The survey also reveals that 90 percent of drivers are now wearing their seatbelts
Female passengers were found to be more likely than male passengers to belt up in the back of the car
Drivers face up to four penalty points and a fine of up to €800 if convicted in court if they fail to wear a seatbelt and fail to ensure passengers under 17 are adequately restrained. Any passengers aged 17 and over, detected for not wearing a seatbelt, will be liable to an on the spot fine of €25.
As of 30th June 2009 a total of 55,393 penalty points notices have been issued to drivers for failure to wear seatbelts.
