Primary enforcement sends a message to motorists that belt use is an important safety issue that the state takes seriously. Statewide driver seat belt use increased from 70 percent in 1992 to 83 percent in late 1993 after the state changed to primary enforcement. As of December 1998, California s belt use rate for all passenger motor vehicles has risen to 88.6 percent. In attitude surveys, officers consistently preferred primary laws and report that a secondary enforcement law is a major deterrent to issuing citations. Passenger Vehicles Extend protection to rear seat occupants.
Most laws currently apply only to the driver and front seat passengers.
All vehicle occupants should buckle up. Extend coverage to all types of personal vehicles. Some states exempt occupants of pickup trucks, vans, and other light trucks, yet most of these vehicles are used for personal transportation. Prohibit passengers from riding in the cargo bed of pickup trucks. To avoid excessive risk, passengers should ride only in seating areas equipped with seat belts.