TY  - JOUR
PY  - 1977//
TI  - Economics of safety and seat belt use
JO  - Journal of safety research
A1  - Blomquist, Glenn C.
SP  - 179
EP  - 189
VL  - 9
IS  - 4
N2  - Multivariate probit analysis of automobile lap seat belt use of over 1800 drivers located throughout the U.S.  Yielded statistically significant and reasonable results in which seatbelt use are not in use was correctly predicted for 77% of the drivers.  The variables included in the empirical analysis followed directly from a theoretical model of life-saving activity developed in the paper that views the seatbelt use decision as primarily economic.  Use of seat belts was expected to be greater when the productivity in preventing injury was greater.  Seat belt, productivity variables bound to be important were age of driver, male sex, and rural speed limit, all of which increased seatbelt use.  Use was also expected to be greater when the value the driver places on his life is greater.  Future labor earnings and health were thus found to significantly increase seatbelt use.  Higher costs of using seat belts were expected to reduce seatbelt use.  Indeed, high wage rates, short trips, extra adjustment and fastening due to family demands, and lack of education were found to decrease seatbelt use.  A useful policy implication is that consideration of such time costs (including inconvenience) is imperative in formulating any successful safety regulation.<p />
LA  - en
SN  - 0022-4375
UR  - http://dx.doi.org/
ID  - ref1
ER  -