The relationship of seat belt non-use to personality, lifestyle and driving record

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Abstract
This study explored the hypothesis that non-use of seat belts may be related to other indices of problem behavior such as substance use, personality characteristics, irresponsible attitudes and a greater driving risk. Based on self-reported seat belt use over the last 10 trips by car, three levels of belt use were defined: non-use, inconsistent use, and regular (always) use. Three distinct samples of drivers were studied: convicted impaired drivers, high accident or demerit point drivers and a control sample, all randomly selected from Ontario driver license files and matched by age and sex. Individuals were personally interviewed in their homes using a standard questionnaire. Within samples, the three levels of seat belt user were compared on a wide range of self-reported measures and driver record variables. Results obtained were generally consistent across samples, although some differences were noted. On averge, seat belt non-users were younger, less educated, more likely male and unmarried. Controlling for these demographic differences, non-users were higher sensation seekers, more impulsive, consumed more alcohol and other drugs and accumulated more traffic violations. Non-users in the control sample also had higher accident frequencies. Inconsistent users more closely resembled non-users than always users. The results suggest that targeted intervention strategies may be necessary for committed non-users of seat belts. These include modified enforcement practices and attempts to change attitudes through education. Driver improvement programs are the most obvious delivery mechanism for the latter.

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