Evaluation of Maine\u2019s Seat Belt Law Change from Secondary to Primary Enforcement

NHTSA - Behavioral Safety Researchhttps://doi.org/10.21949/15256892010PDFTech ReportChaudhary, Neil K.Tison, JulieCasanova, TaraPreusser Research Group, Inc.United States. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Office of Research and TechnologyUnited States. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Office of Research and Technology. Behavioral Technology DivisionUnited States. National Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationMaineSeat beltsTraffic law enforcementTraffic citationsNightDOT HS 811 259DTNH22-05-D-15043Draft final report; 2007Maine upgraded its seat belt law to primary enforcement on September 20, 2007. Both daytime and nighttime observed belt use increased in the months following implementation of the law (daytime 77% to 84%; night 69% to 81%). Although daytime belt use was generally higher, nighttime belt use showed a greater increase than daytime belt use. Awareness surveys indicated that Maine motorists were clearly aware of the law change and its consequences. Survey respondents also indicated having heard both messages about enforcement and messages encouraging belt use. Focus groups with representatives of a number of police departments showed that police responded positively to the change in law. Police also reported a positive change in motorists\u2019 belt use behavior in the months following the law change.129