This study analyzes seat belt non-compliance among drivers and its impact on road safety. Data was collected through observations of drivers at an intersection in Polokwane, South Africa. The findings show high rates of non-compliance, particularly among male and black drivers. To address this issue, the study recommends increasing public education campaigns, strengthening enforcement of seat belt laws through higher fines and penalties, and collaborating with partners to promote road safety initiatives. The goal is to launch a road safety project that improves compliance and reduces injuries from traffic accidents.

1. Abstract- This study focuses on the trend of seat belt non-compliance of vehicle drivers
and its effect on road safety. Based on the observations of law enforcement officers and
supported by the increase in injuries from driver seat belt non-compliance. This action
research seeks to inform the factors on the factors contributing to this dangerous
behavior. Through a comprehensive analysis of data observed and collected, public
awareness campaigns, and enforcement strategies, this study aims to provide insights
into solutions that can reduce the risks associated with seat belt non-compliance and
increase the increase in road safety. Therefore, the findings highlight the immediate need
for collective efforts in promoting seat belt usage to improve overall road safety and
reduce injuries in vehicle accidents.
1.INTRODUCTION
Seatbelts play a critical role in reducing injuries in case of accidents on our roads.
According to Evans, 423:1996) the seat belt’s effectiveness could be defined as the
reduction in risk (or probability) of being injured due to the use of seat belt when involved
in an accident. Road safety is a critical issue that demands immediate attention in South
Africa. As a Law enforcement officer, I have personally observed a concerning issue
where an increasing number of drivers fail to wear seat belts. This observation is further
supported by the rise in the number of injuries and road fatalities due to drivers neglecting
to use seat belts. To address this issue, I have initiated an action research project aimed
at collecting data to present to my supervisor. This Action research aims to highlight the
urgency and importance of launching a Road safety project to improve the current poor
state of road safety in our community furthermore educating drivers and enforcing the
laws of wearing seat belts. By gathering and analyzing data, to persuade management to
launch a road safety project. The research study will gather information on driver behavior
related to seat belt usage, using observations as the primary data collection method.
2.LITERATURE REVIEW

2. The failure to wear seat belts presents a great deal of danger to both drivers and
passengers on the road. Numerous studies have demonstrated the lifesaving benefits of
seat belts, including reducing the risk of fatal injuries in car accidents by approximately
45% for drivers (NHTSA, 2018). However, despite the availability and effectiveness of
seat belts, the non-compliance of drivers has become increasingly common.
3. THE AIM OF THE ACTION RESEARCH PROJECT
The primary aim of this action research is to observe and collect data on the usage of
seat belt and non-compliance of seat belt usage in our community and present it to
management to support the launch of a Road Safety project. Therefore, presenting this
collected data to management, will highlight the need for a Road Safety project in our
community. Firstly, an increase in public awareness campaigns can educate drivers about
the importance of seat belt usage and the consequences of non-compliance. This can
help dispel any misconceptions and create a culture of seat belt wearing. This will focus
on increasing awareness, education, and enforcement to improve seat belt usage rates.
4.METHODOLOGY
To accurately present the severeness of the issue, data collection is crucial. The method
of observation can be employed to gather relevant information. To collect comprehensive
data, a quantitative research method will be employed. The project will utilize a one-phase
approach consisting of observational studies. Firstly, conducting observational studies of
drivers will provide insight into their attitudes, and usage of seat belt. This can help identify
drivers that are compliant and non-compliant towards seat belt usage. Furthermore,
getting an insight into ethnicity, gender and vehicle types contributing to the problem. This
data can be analysed to identify any patterns or trends, such as ethnic groups and gender
more aligned to not wearing seat belts in the location.
Phase 1: Observational Studies

3. As a Law enforcement officer, I am tasked with systematically observing vehicles at
Polokwane Excelsior Street intersection. Observations will be conducted during different
times of the day and week to capture a representative sample. The data collected will
include demographic information, observed seat belt usage rates, vehicle type, ethnicity
and driver behavior and any contextual factors that may influence compliance.
5.OBSERVATION AND FINDINGS
On the 14th and the 16th of August 2023, a number of 100 vehicles were observed and
thus data of every 5th vehicle passing was collected and recorded at the T-Junction of
Excelsior Street in Polokwane. Therefore only 20 vehicles from the 100 cars observed
was recorded and collected. Only drivers of Vehicles, were taken into consideration in this
analysis. The data collected include the ethnicity of drivers, gender, vehicle type and
driver behavior. Furthermore, Seat belt usage is also reported in this action research,
therefore configuring whether drivers wore seatbelts or not in that Junction. It is to be
noted that details of reported seat belt usage by vehicle drivers, based on the data
collected, are shown in Figure 5.1. It can be seen on the figure that seat belt usage
amongst the drivers is significantly lower when compared with drivers not wearing
seatbelts. Overall seat belt usage among drivers is lower when compared to the drivers
that are not wearing a seat belt. All type categories, are noted in Figure 5.1
The findings of data of drivers collected at the T-Junction of Excelsior Street next to TUT
in Polokwane clearly indicate the considered categories of gender, ethnicity and driver
behavior have been identified and formulated into considerable and effective data. The
data collected indicates that 65% of drivers recorded were male and 35% were female in
the gender category. Ethnicity is broader and varis; therefore, this research only
undertook the opportunity to study 2 ethnic groups for this study. As observed only 85%
of black drivers were recorded at the intersection and 15% were white. The data of the
mode of transport used was sedan 45%, Light commercial vehicle 20%, Heavy vehicle
15% and Light delivery vehicle 20% was observed and recorded.
Females are more unlikely to engage in risky behavior as therefore when this study was
formulated it was discovered that 20% of the female drivers were compliant to seat belt
usage and only 15% non-compliant to seat belt usage. Research indicates that male

4. drivers have a habit of engaging in riskier driving behaviours compared to females,
including not wearing seatbelts. Therefore, this study revealed that 45% of male drivers
were compliant to seat belt usage and only 20% were non-compliant to seat belt usage.
This clearly shows a high percentage of male driver being non-compliant compared to
Female drivers. This study also shows that Black drivers have the more non-compliant
seat belt usage than white drivers. In addition, a percent of 45% of Black people were
compliant to seat belt usage and only 40% were non-compliant. 5 % of White drivers were
compliant to seat belt usage and only 10% were non-compliant.
In overall a statical illustration is shown in the figure below:
Figure 5.1
6.RECOMMENDATIONS
By presenting this collected data to management, we can highlight the urgent need for a
Road Safety project in our community. Implementing such a project can have several
65
45
20
35
20
15
85
45
40
15
5
10
45
20
15
20
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
Gender Ethnic Group Types of Vehicle Seatbelt compliance Seatbelt non-compliance
DRIVER GENDER, ETHNICITY AND DRIVER BEHAVIOR DATA
Male Female Black White Sedan LCV Heavy Vehicle LDV

5. positive outcomes. Firstly, an increase in public awareness campaigns can educate
drivers about the importance of seat belt usage and the consequences of non-
compliance. This can help dispel any misconceptions and create a culture of seat belt
wearing. Therefore, Public education is an essential tool in promoting seat belt
compliance. Law enforcement agencies should collaborate with government bodies and
non-profit organizations to conduct comprehensive campaigns that inform and educate
the public about the importance of seat belt usage and the benefits of wearing seat belts
and the potential consequences of non-compliance. Therefore, by collaborating with
these government bodies such as schools etc., and non-profit organizations will bring a
collective effort to promote road safety education. As thus Integrating road safety
programs into school curriculum and organizing workshops and seminars can impart
knowledge and instil safe driving practices from a young age.
Moreover, Law enforcement officers should be given the authority to enforce seat belt
laws actively. Therefore, introducing stricter enforcement measures. Law enforcement
agencies should advocate for revised legislation that introduces higher fines for offenders
and their repeated violations. Additionally, imposing demerit points on driving licenses for
seat belt non-compliance can be an effective tool to discourage repeat offenders.
Implementing the revised this legislation that introduces higher fines and stronger
penalties, for non-compliant drivers, will act as a deterrent and encourage compliance.
Increasing Law Enforcement presence on the roads is crucial for effective seat belt
enforcement. Regular checkpoints should be established in high-risk areas to ensure
compliance. Random seat belt checks and non-compliant seatbelt usage as a primary
offense can further increase compliance rates.
Law enforcement agencies should allocate dedicated resources, such as personnel and
vehicles, to broaden enforcement efforts. Using marked patrol cars near high-risk
locations can serve as a visual reminder and create a sense of accountability among
drivers. This way, drivers will understand that seat belt laws are to be taken seriously and
non-compliance will not be tolerated. These measures will create a sense of
accountability and help instil the idea of safe driving habits. Furthermore, providing
specialized training to law enforcement officers will enhance their ability to detect seat

6. belt violations accurately. Officers should be trained to identify signs that indicate non-
compliance, such as drivers attempting to hide seat belt usage or using illegal devices
that bypass seat belt sensor systems. Additionally, allocating necessary resources, such
as technological tools and training materials, will empower officers to enforce seat belt
laws efficiently.
Moreover, collaborating with private companies and organizations can provide additional
resources and support for seat belt promotion campaigns. Engaging insurance
companies, automobile manufacturers, and related industries can help in funding and
implementing education and awareness initiatives. These partnerships can also involve
providing incentives, such as discounts on insurance premiums for individuals who
consistently wear seat belts or offering awards for communities that demonstrate high
compliance rates.
7.CONCLUSION
Improving road safety is a collective responsibility that requires proactive measures. The
action research project outlined in this action research aims to address the issue of non-
compliance with seat belt usage within our community. By collecting and presenting
comprehensive data to management, we can advocate for the implementation of effective
strategies and interventions. Ultimately, the success of the Road Safety project will
depend on the commitment and collaboration of law enforcement, government agencies,
and the community as a whole to prioritize the importance of seat belt usage and enhance
overall road safety.
8.BIBLIOGRAPHY
Evans, L., 1996. Safety-belt effectiveness: the influence of crash severity and selective
recruitment. Accident Analysis & Prevention, 28(4), pp.423-433.