MICHIGAN, USA — Michigan's seat belt use rate has been declining for four years.
According to results from a grant-funded observation study conducted by Michigan State University, the state's use rate has decreased by two percent since 2019.
In 2022, the rate of seat belt use in the state was 92.9 percent. This year, results have shown the rate decreased again to 92.4 percent.
The 2023 study was recorded between May and July and marks the lowest seat belt use rate since 2004 when it was 90.5 percent.
The Michigan State Police says each one percent increase in seat belt usage equates to 10 fewer people dying in crashes and 100 fewer being seriously injured.
“Seat belts are the foundation of every effective traffic safety strategy and one of the easiest things drivers and passengers can do to be safe,” said Katie Bower, director of the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning (OHSP).
Bower said as Michigan used to be a leading state in seat belt usage, it's alarming to see the rate continue to decrease.
In addition, the study found that Michigan drivers' use of electronic devices increased from 6.1 percent in 2022 to 8.3 percent in 2023.
“Since much of the seat belt survey was conducted before Michigan’s hands-free law took effect on June 30, we are looking forward to next year’s results to see the impact the new law has had on traffic safety,” Bower said.
Click here to see a map of Michigan seat belt use by county.
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