The Effects of Seat Belts on Injury Severity of Front and Rear Seat Occupants in the Same Frontal Crash

Data on passenger cars in frontal crashes were reviewed using NASS 1980-1991. Only crashes with one or more rear seat passengers were included. Combinations (pairs) were made based on restraint use: lap-shoulder belts in the front seat (or no belts worn) and lap belts, (or belts worn) in the rear seat. Passive belts or child restrained occupants were not included. The AIS was used for injury severity. The data indicate the rear seat to be a safer environment. Lap belted rear seat occupants always fared better than their front seat counterparts.