Albeit from a high level, seatbelt use is showing a worrying decline, according to results released by the Road Safety Authority from a survey held last autumn, writes Brian Byrne.
Driver rates dropped by 4pc to 95pc, with a similar rate observed in front seat passengers to a marginally lower 94pc.
Rear seat overall seatbelt use increased by 2pc to 95pc, suggesting that 'do you mind fastening' TV ad might have shown results. But rear seatbelt use by those travelling on rural roads had a lower 92pc compliance.
RSA analysis of Irish collision data shows that 22% of car users killed between 2019-2023 were not wearing a seat belt*. Also, 7% of car users seriously injured between 2019 and 2023 were not wearing a seat belt at the time of the collision.
