Since their sizes and weights are closer to those of passenger cars and trucks, the agency believes seat belts in those vehicles are necessary to provide occupant protection. School bus pedestrian fatalities account for the highest number of school bus related fatalities each year. While no Federal requirement exists for seat belts on large school buses, states and localities are free to install them if they feel it is in the best interest of safety in their area. Seat belts have been required on passenger cars since 1968. Most states have enacted laws requiring wearing of seat belts in passenger cars and light trucks.
Laws governing the usage of occupant restraints are the prerogative of each state.
We are sensitive to the fact that wearing seat belts is important. School buses are heavier, experience less crash forces, and distribute crash forces differently than do passenger cars and light trucks. Because of this, the crash force experienced by the passengers of large buses is much less than that experienced by occupants of passenger cars, light trucks, or vans. Federal regulations require the installation of occupant restraints in motor vehicles based on the vehicle type and size. I hope that this information is helpful to you.