Seatbelts 2011-2012

In April 2008, Maine began implementing a new primary enforcement law regarding seatbelt use. We now have the opportunity to measure the impact of the new law from several perspectives. This project will examine seatbelt use throughout the state, with an additional rural use component. We will also measure motorcycle helmet use, as well as night time seatbelt use. In addition, in-person surveys will be conducted at a number of Bureau of Motor Vehicle Offices to obtain information about certain driving behaviors. Past study findings have been and will continue to be used by groups such as Maine CDC and Maine Health Information Center. This study will allow the Survey Research Center to continue a long relationship with the Maine Bureau of Highway Safety, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and the Preusser Research Group. It will also provide a rare opportunity to examine the direct effects of a change in law enforcement policy.