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Use of Seat Belt and Enforcement of Seat Belt Laws in Pakistan a
Ashfaq Ahmad Klair & Muhammad Arfan
a
a
National Highways and Motorways Police (NH&MP) Training College, Sheikhupura, Pakistan Accepted author version posted online: 16 Jan 2014.Published online: 12 Jun 2014.
Click for updates To cite this article: Ashfaq Ahmad Klair & Muhammad Arfan (2014) Use of Seat Belt and Enforcement of Seat Belt Laws in Pakistan, Traffic Injury Prevention, 15:7, 706-710, DOI: 10.1080/15389588.2013.877586 To link to this article: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/15389588.2013.877586
PLEASE SCROLL DOWN FOR ARTICLE Taylor & Francis makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of all the information (the “Content”) contained in the publications on our platform. However, Taylor & Francis, our agents, and our licensors make no representations or warranties whatsoever as to the accuracy, completeness, or suitability for any purpose of the Content. Any opinions and views expressed in this publication are the opinions and views of the authors, and are not the views of or endorsed by Taylor & Francis. The accuracy of the Content should not be relied upon and should be independently verified with primary sources of information. Taylor and Francis shall not be liable for any losses, actions, claims, proceedings, demands, costs, expenses, damages, and other liabilities whatsoever or howsoever caused arising directly or indirectly in connection with, in relation to or arising out of the use of the Content. This article may be used for research, teaching, and private study purposes. Any substantial or systematic reproduction, redistribution, reselling, loan, sub-licensing, systematic supply, or distribution in any form to anyone is expressly forbidden. Terms & Conditions of access and use can be found at http:// www.tandfonline.com/page/terms-and-conditions
Traffic Injury Prevention (2014) 15, 706–710 C Taylor & Francis Group, LLC Copyright ISSN: 1538-9588 print / 1538-957X online DOI: 10.1080/15389588.2013.877586
Use of Seat Belt and Enforcement of Seat Belt Laws in Pakistan ASHFAQ AHMAD KLAIR and MUHAMMAD ARFAN National Highways and Motorways Police (NH&MP) Training College, Sheikhupura, Pakistan
Downloaded by [UNAM Ciudad Universitaria] at 13:39 03 January 2015
Received 13 August 2013, Accepted 17 December 2013
Objectives: Traffic crashes are a leading cause of deaths and injuries in Pakistan. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that approximately 30,131 people die in road crashes annually on Pakistani roads (WHO 2013). The use of seat belts can be effective in reducing road crash fatalities in Pakistan but under existing seat belt laws, seat belt use is mandatory only for drivers and is limited to specific vehicles and roads. Primarily, this study was aimed to measure seat belt use rates among Pakistani vehicle occupants. It was meant to investigate the factors influencing the compliance behavior of seat belt use among vehicle drivers. The second objective was to gauge the enforcement of seat belt laws and their effectiveness in Pakistan. Methods: A first ever national survey was conducted for the systematic recording of seat belt use rates among Pakistani drivers and front passengers on 5 different kinds of roads. Factors influencing compliance with seat belt use were gauged through a questionnaire for 5 different kinds of roads. Commitment level of different traffic police organizations to enforce seat belt laws was also measured through their previous year’s enforcement data. Results: Average seat belt use rates were 20% with the highest on motorways (53%) and the lowest on rural roads (5%). Unawareness of the law/usefulness, seat belt not fitted, discomfort, forgetfulness, low speed, and careless attitude were major reasons for noncompliance with seat belt laws among Pakistani drivers. Seat belt use rates were directly proportional to law enforcement strength and the National Highways and Motorways Police (NH&MP) showed maximum enforcement on M-2. There is a dire need to revise existing seat belt laws in order to raise seat belt use rates in Pakistan. Keywords: seat belt, road safety, Pakistan, laws enforcement
Introduction Road traffic crashes are escalating throughout the world and are eighth leading cause of deaths and injuries (Murray et al. 2012). The World Health Organization (WHO 2013) reported the deaths of more than 1.24 million people on world’s roads annually, and up to 50 million others are injured. Pakistan is among low- and middle-income countries sharing about 90% of global road death toll, with fatality rates of 17.4 fatalities per 100,000 population per year. The WHO (2013) estimated that approximately 30,131 people die in road crashes annually on Pakistani roads. Seat belts are a major component of vehicle active safety systems. During a crash, seat belt use reduces the risk of fatal injuries for front seat occupants by 40–50% and 25–75% for rear seat occupants (Elvik and Vaa 2004; Zhu et al. 2007). Studies have also shown that during accidents, the use of seat belts prevents certain types of injuries (especially
Managing Editor David Viano oversaw the review of this article. Address correspondence to Ashfaq Ahmad Klair, National Highways and Motorways Police (NH&MP) Training College, Sheikhupura, Pakistan. E-mail: [email protected] Color versions of one or more of the figures in the article can be found online at www.tandfonline.com/gcpi.
head and facial injury) to vehicle occupants or mitigates their severity (Campbell 1991; Shabita and Fukuda 1994). All vehicle occupants (driver and passengers) should wear seat belts if provided (Vienna Convention on Road Traffic 1968). However, legislation regarding seat belt use is not the same in all countries (Peden et al. 2004). Seat belt laws do not apply to all motorized vehicle occupants in Pakistan (WHO 2013). Existing seat belt laws (Government of Pakistan 1965, 2000) are applicable only to drivers. Likewise, the Government of Pakistan (1965) exempts some classes of vehicles/persons like those having a medical certificate, vehicles with no seat belt fitted by the manufacturer, and emergency and goods vehicle drivers. Similarly, this law is limited to specific roads only (Government of Pakistan 1965). No data are available on seat belt use rates in Pakistan at the national level, and seat belt installation for all seats is not mandatory (Road Traffic Injury Research and Prevention Centre 2010; WHO 2009). Most older model buses and trucks are not equipped with seat belts for either driver or passenger seats. Seat belt law enforcement is inadequate and variable because no national or regional surveillance for safety belt use is available to date (Ahmed 2007; Bhatti et al. 2011; National Transport Research Centre 1999). The Road Traffic Injury Research and Prevention Centre (2010) reported the enforcement level for existing seat belt laws in Pakistan at 3 on
Seat Belt Use in Pakistan
707
a scale of 0–10. Similarly, almost no research work has been done to understand the impact of seat belt laws enforcement in Pakistan (Bhatti et al. 2011; Nishtar et al. 2004). Primarily, this study was aimed to measure seat belt use rates among Pakistani vehicle occupants. It was meant to investigate the factors influencing the compliance with seat belt laws among vehicle drivers. The second objective was to gauge the enforcement level of seat belt laws and their effectiveness in Pakistan.
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Methodology This study was carried out on 5 different kinds of roads, including a motorway (M-2), national highway (N-5), provincial highway (expressway), urban roads (Lahore City), and a rural road (SKP-GUJ). These roads are diversified in road engineering, commuters’ awareness levels, traffic regulating agencies/laws, and vehicular traffic. M-2 is a 6-lane signal free corridor with controlled entry/exit, under the traffic managerial jurisdiction of the National Highways and Motorways Police (NH&MP). It connects the country’s capital, Islamabad, with the provincial capital Lahore. The maximum speed limit on M-2 is 120 km/h. N-5 is 4 lanes and is the longest road in the country, connecting dozens of cities across the state. The portion of N-5 selected for this study is the busiest road in the country surrounded by industries on both sides. Traffic on N-5 is also regulated by the NH&MP. The expressway is a well-engineered, 4-lane provincial highway linking the largest cities in Punjab province. It is a major industrial road with thickly populated areas throughout its length and traffic on this road is managed by the traffic police in Sheikhupura. Lahore City was selected as the urban area because it is second largest city in the country and has remained the center of economic, political, transportation, entertainment, and educational activities for centuries. Lahore City Traffic Police are responsible for traffic management in the city. The road between Sheikhupura and Gujranwala is a typical rural highway with a single carriageway surrounded by agricultural fields and small villages. It is also under control of the traffic police in Sheikhupura. In this study, specific areas were marked on these roads to record the data. The data were recorded in 3 phases. In the first phase of data recording, driver and front passenger seat belt use rates were measured from January 8 to 12, 2013, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The data so recorded are given in Table 1. A team of 15 observers was trained and subsequently deployed at each sampling point to ensure a consistent approach to data collection during phase 1 of this project. Prior to the Table 1. Schedule for first phase of data recording Serial no. 1 2 3 4 5
Data recording points Ravi Toll Plaza, Motorway-2 (M-2) Gujranwala Toll Plaza, National Highway-5 (N-5) Canal Road Lahore City Kot Abdul Malak Toll Plaza, Expressway 7-km Sheikhupura, Gujranwala Road, rural road
Date 8-01-2013 9-01-2013 10-01-2013 11-01-2013 12-01-2013
actual study, a short survey was conducted to minimize errors in data recording. At each one of these sampling points each vehicle (all types) was observed for 6 h to record the use of seat belt rates by drivers and front passengers. Seat belt use rates were recorded separately for drivers and front passengers. For this purpose a survey form was devised. Due to security reasons, seat belt use rates were measured only in the daytime. In the second phase of data recording, a questionnaire was designed to determine the reasons for use or nonuse of seat belts by drivers and to measure the enforcement strength of different traffic police organizations against seat belt violations. The survey team included 3 members, including the principal author and coauthor. In order to minimize human error, each member was assigned only one specific question at all data recording points. One hundred fifty drivers were interviewed by each team member at every observation point. This phase of the study was completed in 10 days, between January 13 and January 22, 2013, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. To obtain quantitative data answers, each question was subdivided in categories based on the prestudy exercise in the same locations. The following questions were asked in this exercise: 1. Why do you wear a seat belt? (If fastened) 2. Why do you not wear a seat belt? (If not fastened) 3. Have you ever been penalized for a seat belt violation? (On this road) To complete the above questionnaire, various drivers—for example, businessmen, private and public service, professionals, and females—were interviewed and all kinds of vehicles were engaged in this process. To ensure the true representation of population of a particular road, drivers traveling regularly (minimum 2 years) on that particular road were selected. During the last phase, data record sections of all the traffic police organizations were visited to collect the record of penalty tickets issued for seat belt violations during the year 2012.
Results Seat Belt Wearing Rates On M-2, 5050 vehicles were observed. Figure 1 shows that 53% of drivers (2700 vehicles) were wearing seat belts while driving on M-2, whereas 47% (2350 vehicles) were not. Compared to drivers, only 11% of front seat passengers were using a seat belt and 89% were not (Figure 2). On N-5, commonly known as Grant Trunk Road, 974 drivers (24%) out of 4128 were wearing a seat belt and 3154 (76%) drivers were not (Figure 1). Seat belt use rates among front seat passengers on N-5 are depicted in Figure 2, which shows that only 3% of passengers (110 out of 3360) were wearing a seat belt. It is pertinent to mention here that traffic on M-2 and N-5 is regulated by the NH&MP. The expressway falls under the jurisdiction of the Sheikhupura district traffic police. Figure 1 shows that only 11% of drivers (out of total 5456 vehicles observed) adhered to the seat belt laws on this provincial highway, whereas 89% were not wearing their seat belts. Similarly, among 4014
708
Klair and Arfan With seat belt
Without seatbelt 95% 89% 92%
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100% 90% 76% 80% 70% 60% 53% 47% 50% 40% 24% 30% 11% 20% 10% 0%
8%
5%
Fig. 1. Vehicle seat belt use rates among drivers on different roads.
passengers occupying second (front passenger) seat, only 84 (2%) were wearing a seat belt and 3930 passengers (98%) were not (Figure 2). Lahore City Traffic Police manage urban traffic in Lahore City. A total of 4350 drivers observed, of whom only 8% were wearing a seat belt and 92% were not (see Figure 1). Likewise, front seat passengers seat belt use rates in Lahore City were also low; that is, only 2% (40 out of 2060 front passengers) were observed wearing a seat belt (see Figure 2). The rural road between Sheikhupura and Gujranwala is administrated by the Punjab Traffic Police. Results revealed that only 110 drivers out of 2044 (5%) were wearing a seat belt while traveling on this road. Rates for front passengers were also very low; that is, 1% (10 passengers out of 1780) of front seat passengers on this road were wearing a seat belt (see Figure 2). Reasons for Compliance/Noncompliance With Seat Belt Laws Among Drivers Reasons for compliance/noncompliance with seat belt laws are shown in Tables 2 and 3. In a sample size of 150 drivers With seat belt Without seatbelt 97% 98% 98% 99% 100% 89% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 11% 3% 2% 2% 1% 10% 0%
Fig. 2. Use of seat belts by front seat passengers on different roads.
at each sampling, results shows that more than 60% of drivers were wearing seat belts (Table 2). Fear of penalty is another important factor on M-2 and N-5 and 28% and 20% drivers respectively were using seat belts to avoid penalty on these roads (Table 2). In this study, drivers who were not wearing seat belts were asked why they do not a wear seat belt while driving. Table 3 shows different reasons for noncompliance with seat belt laws as stated by 150 drivers. As per the results, a notable number of drivers on expressway and rural roads (10% & and 15%, respectively) were unaware of seat belt laws. Likewise, 8% and 11% drivers on the same roads were uninformed about the utility of seat belts. Vehicles with not fitted/faulty seat belts was a prominent reason for noncompliance stated by responding drivers on all roads except in Lahore City (12%, 16%, 20% , and 17% on M-2, N-5, expressway, and rural roads, respectively). Likewise, 18% and 20% drivers stated a lack of seat belt law enforcement on the expressway and SKP-GUJ rural road, respectively. Seventeen percent of drivers on M-2 did not comply with seat belt laws due to illness or discomfort. Forgot to wear a seat belt was a common reason on M-2 and N-5 (28% and 23%, respectively). In the urban area (Lahore City), most drivers (30%) shared the common misunderstanding that they were not in danger because they were driving slowly, and others believed that it is not necessary to wear a seat belt when traveling only a few miles. Seventeen and 14% of drivers in Lahore City and on rural roads are not accustomed to use seat belt use, while 12% drivers at M-2 admitted that their careless attitude is the reason for not wearing seat belt. Enforcement Strength of Seat Belt Laws The enforcement strength of seat belt laws on all 5 roads is reported in Table 4. Responding to a question, “Have you ever been penalized for not wearing seat belt violation on this road?” 49% and 41% of drivers on M-2 and N-5, respectively, replied “yes.” Eighty-eight and 90 percent of drivers on the expressway and rural roads, respectively, reported that they have never been penalized for a seat belt law violation. Seat belt law enforcement data show that the NH&MP penalized 31,197 and 21,202 drivers for noncompliance with seat belt laws on M-2 and N-5, respectively, in 2012 (computer Bauru NH&MP Islamabad, personal communication). Lahore City traffic police issued 3276 tickets to seat belt violators in the whole city, whereas Sheikhupura traffic police did not penalize a single driver during 2012 on the expressway and SKP-GUJ rural road (data record section, Punjab traffic police headquarters, Lahore). At each sampling point, a small number of drivers were unable to respond during the survey and provided answers other than those mentioned for each question in Tables 2–4. These are included in Tables 2–4 as “other.”
Discussion It is universally accepted that absolute prevention of traffic collisions is nearly impossible, but the consequential injuries and severity can be minimized by protective devices like seat belts, especially for drivers and front passengers (Kulanthayan et al. 2004). Seat belt use rates and factors influencing the use of seat belts among vehicle occupants in Pakistan were
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Table 2. Reasons for driver’s seat belt use
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Results from all observation points (%) Question 1
Driver’s response
M-2
N-5
Expressway
Lahore City
Rural roads
Why do you wear seat belt? (If fastened)
Personal safety To avoid penalty No response Other
64 28 4 4
73 20 2 5
75 9 6 10
70 16 8 6
85 7 5 3
studied in this article. Overall seat belt use rates and compliance levels to this particular law are very low on all roads studied (Figures 1 and 2). The average seat belt use rate on all kinds of road is 20% which is low compared to countries like Australia (97%), the UK (96%), and the United States (84%; WHO 2013). Personal safety is a principal motivating factor for those drivers who wear seat belts, but their number is too low, so fear of penalty is complementary factor in compliance with seat belt laws. The awareness level on the effectiveness of wearing seat belts is very low among Pakistani drivers (Ahmed 2007). A high ratio of vehicles (mostly commercial passenger service vehicles [PSVs] and goods transport vehicles along with older model cars) on all roads are not fitted with safety belts or the seat belts are faulty (Table 3). These findings are in line with earlier findings of the National Transport Research Centre, Islamabad (1999) and Sangowawa et al. (2010). “I am ill,” “I feel discomfort,” and “I forgot to wear my seat belt” are common excuses given by drivers to avoid a penalty when stopped by a police officer. Some drivers have medical certificates with them as a proof of exemption from seat belt usage. An interesting relationship between speeding and seat belt use rates was found in this study (Table 3). Low rates of seat belt use are also attributed to the low perceived risk of being involved in an accident (Clisir and Letho 1996; DinhZahr et al. 2001). The results show that respondents felt that the seat belt is only needed for those traveling at high speeds and thus are less likely to comply with seat belt laws (Janssen 1994; Kulanthayan et al. 2004). In the absence of popular road safety concepts, a large number of drivers are not in the habit of wearing seat belts. This behavior is the result of low levels of education and awareness (Batool et al. 2012). A careless
attitude promotes nonuse of seat belts and Pakistani drivers exhibit this careless attitude on roads without any fear. This is supported by early findings of Kayani et al. (2012). This study reveals that seat belt use rates are directly proportional to the enforcement of seat belt laws (Figure 1). As the enforcement activities increases, compliance rates also increase (Kulanthayan 2001). This research work reflects the same trends; the seat belt use rates are directly proportional to seat belt law enforcement strength. Seat belt compliance rates are much higher on roads (M-2 and N-5) under the jurisdiction of the NH&MP. This is also in line with earlier and earlier study by Kaye et al. (1995). They found a similar relationship between enforcement activities and use of seat belts in Florida. Similar results were found by Williams et al. (1996) in North Carolina where enforcement increased the use of seat belts among drivers and front seat passengers. The rare use or nonuse of seat belts among front seat passengers on all Pakistani roads could also be attributed to the seat belt laws that only cover drivers. This research work indicates a dire need to improve seat belt use rates in Pakistan (Ahmed 2007; Khan et al. 2008). Existing seat belt laws in Pakistan need to be revised to cover all vehicles, occupants, and roads, in consultation with qualified road safety experts as per international standards (Ahmed 2007; Peden et al 2004; WHO 2013). Strict and visible enforcement of seat belt laws can provide immediate relief in reducing crash fatalities. For long-term compliance, modern concepts of intelligent enforcement need to be introduced. Need-based training of traffic laws enforcement agencies is mandatory. To assess optimal enforcement, regular research work should be conducted and findings should be shared with road safety stakeholders (Khoso et al 2011; WHO 2013).
Table 3. Reasons for nonuse of seat belts by drivers Results from all observation points (%) Question 2 Why do you not wear a seat belt? (if not fastened)
Driver’s response Unaware of law Unaware of usefulness Seat belt not fitted/faulty Lack of enforcement Illness/discomfort Forgot Short drive/low speed Not a habit Careless attitude No response Other
M-2
N-5
Expressway
Lahore City
Rural roads
6 3 12 3 17 28 3 6 12 2 8
9 6 16 4 7 23 5 8 8 4 10
10 8 20 18 9 5 7 11 5 3 4
8 5 7 9 7 3 30 17 2 6 6
15 11 17 20 4 2 8 14 3 3 5
710
Klair and Arfan
Table 4. Enforcement strength of seat belt laws on different roads as reported by drivers Results from all observation points (%) Question 3
Driver’s response
M-2
N-5
Expressway
Lahore City
Rural roads
Have you ever been penalized for a seat belt violation on this road?
Yes
49
41
5
10
2
No No response Other
43 3 5
50 8 1
88 3 4
80 3 7
90 4 4
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Acknowledgments The authors are thankful to Saqib Hussain Kazmi and Zia Abbas ACP (assistant computer programmer) for their assistance in preparation of this article. Trainee officers in the 15th lower class course are especially thanked for their contributions in data collection. Cordial thanks are due to Athar Waheed, Commandant NH&MP Training College, Sheikhupura, for his encouragement that acted as a catalyst in the completion of this research work.
References Ahmed A. National Road Safety Plan 2007–2012. Islamabad, Pakistan: National Road Safety Secretariat, Ministry of Communication; 2007. Batool Z, Carsten O, Jospon A. Road safety issues in Pakistan: a case study of Lahore. Transp Plann Technol. 2012;35:31–48. Bhatti JA, Razzak JA, Lagarde E, Salimi LR. Burden and factors associated with highway work zone crashes, on a section of the Karachi-Hala road, Pakistan. Inj Prev. 2011;17(2):79–83. Campbell BJ. Change in injuries associated with safety belt laws. Accid Anal Prev. 1991;23:87–93. Clisir F, Letho MR. Drivers risk assessment and their impact on seat belt use. Paper presented at: 19th International Conference on Computers and Industrial Engineering; 1996;31:495–498. Dinh-Zahr TB, David AS, Ruth AS, et al. Review of evidence regarding interventions to increase the use of safety belts. Am J Prev Med. 2001;21(suppl):48–65. Elvik R, Vaa T. The Handbook of Road Safety Measures. Amsterdam: Elsevier Science; 2004. Government of Pakistan. Motor Vehicle Ordinance (MVO), §89-B (1965). Government of Pakistan. National Highways Safety Ordinance (NHSO) 2000. Islamabad, Pakistan: Author; 2001. Janssen W. Seat belt wearing and driving behavior: an instrumentedvehicle study. Accid Anal Prev. 1994;26:249–261. Kayani A, King MJ, Fleiter JJ. Fatalism and its implications for risky road use and receptiveness to safety message: a qualitative investigation in Pakistan. Health Educ Res. 2012;27:1043– 1054. Kaye BK, Sapolsky BS, Montgomry DJ. Increasing seat belt use through Pl & E and enforcement: the Thumbs Up campaign. J Safety Res. 1995;26:235–245.
Khan I, Khan A, Aziz F, Islam M, Shafqat S. Factors associated with helmet use among motorcycle users in Karachi, Pakistan. Acad Emerg Med. 2008;15(4):384–387. Khoso AK, Ekman DS, Bhatti JA. Comparison of highway crashes reporting in Pakistan with the World Health Organization Injury Surveillance Guidelines. Traffic Inj Prev. 2011;12(3):279–282. Kulanthayan S. Modelling of compliance behavior of motor cyclists to proper usage of safety helmets in Malaysia. J Crash Prev Inj Control. 2001;2(3):239–346. Kulanthaya S, Rahaa AR, Law TH, Radin Umar RS. Seat belt use among car users in Malaysia. IATSS Res. 2004;28(1):19–25. Murray CJL et al. Global and regional mortality from 235 causes of death for 20 age groups in 1990 and 2010: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2010. Lancet. 2012;380:2095–2128. National Transport Research Centre. Manual of Road Safety Improvement by the Use of Low Cost Engineering Counter Measurements. Islamabad, Pakistan: National Transport Research Centre, National Highway Authority; 1999. Nishtar S, Mohamud KB, Razzak JA, et al. Injury prevention and control: national action plan for NCD prevention, control and health promotion in Pakistan. J Pak Med Assoc. 2004;54(2):57–68. Peden M, Scurfield R, Sleet D, Mohan D, Hyder A, Jarawan E. World Report on Road Traffic Injury Prevention. Geneva, Switzerland: World Health Organization; 2004. Road Traffic Injury Research and Prevention Centre. Half Yearly Report, Jan to June 2010. Karachi, Pakistan: Author; 2010. Sangowawa AO, Alagh BT, Ekanem SE, et al. An observational study of seat belt use among vehicle occupants in Nigeria. Inj Prev. 2010;16(2):85–89. Shabita A, Fukuda K. Risk factors of fatality in motor vehicle traffic accidents. Accid Anal Prev. 1994;26:391–397. Vienna Convention on Road Traffic. Article no. 7: General Rules. Vienna; 1968. Williams AF, Reinfurt D, Wells JK. Increasing seat belt use in North Carolina. J Safety Res. 1996;27:31–41. World Health Organization. Global Status Report on Road Safety: Time for Action. Geneva, Switzlerland: World Health Organization; 2009. Available at: http://www.who.int/violence injury prevention/ road safety status/2009. World Health Organization. Global Status Report on Road Safety: Time for Action. Geneva, Switzerland: World Health Organization; 2013. Available at: http://www.who.int/violence injury prevention/ road safety status/2013. Zhu M, Cummings P, Chu H, Cook LJ. Association of rear seat safety belt use with death in a traffic crash: a matched cohort study. Inj Prev. 2007;13:183–185.
Traffic Injury Prevention Publication details, including instructions for authors and subscription information: http://www.tandfonline.com/loi/gcpi20
Use of Seat Belt and Enforcement of Seat Belt Laws in Pakistan a
Ashfaq Ahmad Klair & Muhammad Arfan
a
a
National Highways and Motorways Police (NH&MP) Training College, Sheikhupura, Pakistan Accepted author version posted online: 16 Jan 2014.Published online: 12 Jun 2014.
Click for updates To cite this article: Ashfaq Ahmad Klair & Muhammad Arfan (2014) Use of Seat Belt and Enforcement of Seat Belt Laws in Pakistan, Traffic Injury Prevention, 15:7, 706-710, DOI: 10.1080/15389588.2013.877586 To link to this article: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/15389588.2013.877586
PLEASE SCROLL DOWN FOR ARTICLE Taylor & Francis makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of all the information (the “Content”) contained in the publications on our platform. However, Taylor & Francis, our agents, and our licensors make no representations or warranties whatsoever as to the accuracy, completeness, or suitability for any purpose of the Content. Any opinions and views expressed in this publication are the opinions and views of the authors, and are not the views of or endorsed by Taylor & Francis. The accuracy of the Content should not be relied upon and should be independently verified with primary sources of information. Taylor and Francis shall not be liable for any losses, actions, claims, proceedings, demands, costs, expenses, damages, and other liabilities whatsoever or howsoever caused arising directly or indirectly in connection with, in relation to or arising out of the use of the Content. This article may be used for research, teaching, and private study purposes. Any substantial or systematic reproduction, redistribution, reselling, loan, sub-licensing, systematic supply, or distribution in any form to anyone is expressly forbidden. Terms & Conditions of access and use can be found at http:// www.tandfonline.com/page/terms-and-conditions
Traffic Injury Prevention (2014) 15, 706–710 C Taylor & Francis Group, LLC Copyright ISSN: 1538-9588 print / 1538-957X online DOI: 10.1080/15389588.2013.877586
Use of Seat Belt and Enforcement of Seat Belt Laws in Pakistan ASHFAQ AHMAD KLAIR and MUHAMMAD ARFAN National Highways and Motorways Police (NH&MP) Training College, Sheikhupura, Pakistan
Downloaded by [UNAM Ciudad Universitaria] at 13:39 03 January 2015
Received 13 August 2013, Accepted 17 December 2013
Objectives: Traffic crashes are a leading cause of deaths and injuries in Pakistan. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that approximately 30,131 people die in road crashes annually on Pakistani roads (WHO 2013). The use of seat belts can be effective in reducing road crash fatalities in Pakistan but under existing seat belt laws, seat belt use is mandatory only for drivers and is limited to specific vehicles and roads. Primarily, this study was aimed to measure seat belt use rates among Pakistani vehicle occupants. It was meant to investigate the factors influencing the compliance behavior of seat belt use among vehicle drivers. The second objective was to gauge the enforcement of seat belt laws and their effectiveness in Pakistan. Methods: A first ever national survey was conducted for the systematic recording of seat belt use rates among Pakistani drivers and front passengers on 5 different kinds of roads. Factors influencing compliance with seat belt use were gauged through a questionnaire for 5 different kinds of roads. Commitment level of different traffic police organizations to enforce seat belt laws was also measured through their previous year’s enforcement data. Results: Average seat belt use rates were 20% with the highest on motorways (53%) and the lowest on rural roads (5%). Unawareness of the law/usefulness, seat belt not fitted, discomfort, forgetfulness, low speed, and careless attitude were major reasons for noncompliance with seat belt laws among Pakistani drivers. Seat belt use rates were directly proportional to law enforcement strength and the National Highways and Motorways Police (NH&MP) showed maximum enforcement on M-2. There is a dire need to revise existing seat belt laws in order to raise seat belt use rates in Pakistan. Keywords: seat belt, road safety, Pakistan, laws enforcement
Introduction Road traffic crashes are escalating throughout the world and are eighth leading cause of deaths and injuries (Murray et al. 2012). The World Health Organization (WHO 2013) reported the deaths of more than 1.24 million people on world’s roads annually, and up to 50 million others are injured. Pakistan is among low- and middle-income countries sharing about 90% of global road death toll, with fatality rates of 17.4 fatalities per 100,000 population per year. The WHO (2013) estimated that approximately 30,131 people die in road crashes annually on Pakistani roads. Seat belts are a major component of vehicle active safety systems. During a crash, seat belt use reduces the risk of fatal injuries for front seat occupants by 40–50% and 25–75% for rear seat occupants (Elvik and Vaa 2004; Zhu et al. 2007). Studies have also shown that during accidents, the use of seat belts prevents certain types of injuries (especially
Managing Editor David Viano oversaw the review of this article. Address correspondence to Ashfaq Ahmad Klair, National Highways and Motorways Police (NH&MP) Training College, Sheikhupura, Pakistan. E-mail: [email protected] Color versions of one or more of the figures in the article can be found online at www.tandfonline.com/gcpi.
head and facial injury) to vehicle occupants or mitigates their severity (Campbell 1991; Shabita and Fukuda 1994). All vehicle occupants (driver and passengers) should wear seat belts if provided (Vienna Convention on Road Traffic 1968). However, legislation regarding seat belt use is not the same in all countries (Peden et al. 2004). Seat belt laws do not apply to all motorized vehicle occupants in Pakistan (WHO 2013). Existing seat belt laws (Government of Pakistan 1965, 2000) are applicable only to drivers. Likewise, the Government of Pakistan (1965) exempts some classes of vehicles/persons like those having a medical certificate, vehicles with no seat belt fitted by the manufacturer, and emergency and goods vehicle drivers. Similarly, this law is limited to specific roads only (Government of Pakistan 1965). No data are available on seat belt use rates in Pakistan at the national level, and seat belt installation for all seats is not mandatory (Road Traffic Injury Research and Prevention Centre 2010; WHO 2009). Most older model buses and trucks are not equipped with seat belts for either driver or passenger seats. Seat belt law enforcement is inadequate and variable because no national or regional surveillance for safety belt use is available to date (Ahmed 2007; Bhatti et al. 2011; National Transport Research Centre 1999). The Road Traffic Injury Research and Prevention Centre (2010) reported the enforcement level for existing seat belt laws in Pakistan at 3 on
Seat Belt Use in Pakistan
707
a scale of 0–10. Similarly, almost no research work has been done to understand the impact of seat belt laws enforcement in Pakistan (Bhatti et al. 2011; Nishtar et al. 2004). Primarily, this study was aimed to measure seat belt use rates among Pakistani vehicle occupants. It was meant to investigate the factors influencing the compliance with seat belt laws among vehicle drivers. The second objective was to gauge the enforcement level of seat belt laws and their effectiveness in Pakistan.
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Methodology This study was carried out on 5 different kinds of roads, including a motorway (M-2), national highway (N-5), provincial highway (expressway), urban roads (Lahore City), and a rural road (SKP-GUJ). These roads are diversified in road engineering, commuters’ awareness levels, traffic regulating agencies/laws, and vehicular traffic. M-2 is a 6-lane signal free corridor with controlled entry/exit, under the traffic managerial jurisdiction of the National Highways and Motorways Police (NH&MP). It connects the country’s capital, Islamabad, with the provincial capital Lahore. The maximum speed limit on M-2 is 120 km/h. N-5 is 4 lanes and is the longest road in the country, connecting dozens of cities across the state. The portion of N-5 selected for this study is the busiest road in the country surrounded by industries on both sides. Traffic on N-5 is also regulated by the NH&MP. The expressway is a well-engineered, 4-lane provincial highway linking the largest cities in Punjab province. It is a major industrial road with thickly populated areas throughout its length and traffic on this road is managed by the traffic police in Sheikhupura. Lahore City was selected as the urban area because it is second largest city in the country and has remained the center of economic, political, transportation, entertainment, and educational activities for centuries. Lahore City Traffic Police are responsible for traffic management in the city. The road between Sheikhupura and Gujranwala is a typical rural highway with a single carriageway surrounded by agricultural fields and small villages. It is also under control of the traffic police in Sheikhupura. In this study, specific areas were marked on these roads to record the data. The data were recorded in 3 phases. In the first phase of data recording, driver and front passenger seat belt use rates were measured from January 8 to 12, 2013, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The data so recorded are given in Table 1. A team of 15 observers was trained and subsequently deployed at each sampling point to ensure a consistent approach to data collection during phase 1 of this project. Prior to the Table 1. Schedule for first phase of data recording Serial no. 1 2 3 4 5
Data recording points Ravi Toll Plaza, Motorway-2 (M-2) Gujranwala Toll Plaza, National Highway-5 (N-5) Canal Road Lahore City Kot Abdul Malak Toll Plaza, Expressway 7-km Sheikhupura, Gujranwala Road, rural road
Date 8-01-2013 9-01-2013 10-01-2013 11-01-2013 12-01-2013
actual study, a short survey was conducted to minimize errors in data recording. At each one of these sampling points each vehicle (all types) was observed for 6 h to record the use of seat belt rates by drivers and front passengers. Seat belt use rates were recorded separately for drivers and front passengers. For this purpose a survey form was devised. Due to security reasons, seat belt use rates were measured only in the daytime. In the second phase of data recording, a questionnaire was designed to determine the reasons for use or nonuse of seat belts by drivers and to measure the enforcement strength of different traffic police organizations against seat belt violations. The survey team included 3 members, including the principal author and coauthor. In order to minimize human error, each member was assigned only one specific question at all data recording points. One hundred fifty drivers were interviewed by each team member at every observation point. This phase of the study was completed in 10 days, between January 13 and January 22, 2013, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. To obtain quantitative data answers, each question was subdivided in categories based on the prestudy exercise in the same locations. The following questions were asked in this exercise: 1. Why do you wear a seat belt? (If fastened) 2. Why do you not wear a seat belt? (If not fastened) 3. Have you ever been penalized for a seat belt violation? (On this road) To complete the above questionnaire, various drivers—for example, businessmen, private and public service, professionals, and females—were interviewed and all kinds of vehicles were engaged in this process. To ensure the true representation of population of a particular road, drivers traveling regularly (minimum 2 years) on that particular road were selected. During the last phase, data record sections of all the traffic police organizations were visited to collect the record of penalty tickets issued for seat belt violations during the year 2012.
Results Seat Belt Wearing Rates On M-2, 5050 vehicles were observed. Figure 1 shows that 53% of drivers (2700 vehicles) were wearing seat belts while driving on M-2, whereas 47% (2350 vehicles) were not. Compared to drivers, only 11% of front seat passengers were using a seat belt and 89% were not (Figure 2). On N-5, commonly known as Grant Trunk Road, 974 drivers (24%) out of 4128 were wearing a seat belt and 3154 (76%) drivers were not (Figure 1). Seat belt use rates among front seat passengers on N-5 are depicted in Figure 2, which shows that only 3% of passengers (110 out of 3360) were wearing a seat belt. It is pertinent to mention here that traffic on M-2 and N-5 is regulated by the NH&MP. The expressway falls under the jurisdiction of the Sheikhupura district traffic police. Figure 1 shows that only 11% of drivers (out of total 5456 vehicles observed) adhered to the seat belt laws on this provincial highway, whereas 89% were not wearing their seat belts. Similarly, among 4014
708
Klair and Arfan With seat belt
Without seatbelt 95% 89% 92%
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100% 90% 76% 80% 70% 60% 53% 47% 50% 40% 24% 30% 11% 20% 10% 0%
8%
5%
Fig. 1. Vehicle seat belt use rates among drivers on different roads.
passengers occupying second (front passenger) seat, only 84 (2%) were wearing a seat belt and 3930 passengers (98%) were not (Figure 2). Lahore City Traffic Police manage urban traffic in Lahore City. A total of 4350 drivers observed, of whom only 8% were wearing a seat belt and 92% were not (see Figure 1). Likewise, front seat passengers seat belt use rates in Lahore City were also low; that is, only 2% (40 out of 2060 front passengers) were observed wearing a seat belt (see Figure 2). The rural road between Sheikhupura and Gujranwala is administrated by the Punjab Traffic Police. Results revealed that only 110 drivers out of 2044 (5%) were wearing a seat belt while traveling on this road. Rates for front passengers were also very low; that is, 1% (10 passengers out of 1780) of front seat passengers on this road were wearing a seat belt (see Figure 2). Reasons for Compliance/Noncompliance With Seat Belt Laws Among Drivers Reasons for compliance/noncompliance with seat belt laws are shown in Tables 2 and 3. In a sample size of 150 drivers With seat belt Without seatbelt 97% 98% 98% 99% 100% 89% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 11% 3% 2% 2% 1% 10% 0%
Fig. 2. Use of seat belts by front seat passengers on different roads.
at each sampling, results shows that more than 60% of drivers were wearing seat belts (Table 2). Fear of penalty is another important factor on M-2 and N-5 and 28% and 20% drivers respectively were using seat belts to avoid penalty on these roads (Table 2). In this study, drivers who were not wearing seat belts were asked why they do not a wear seat belt while driving. Table 3 shows different reasons for noncompliance with seat belt laws as stated by 150 drivers. As per the results, a notable number of drivers on expressway and rural roads (10% & and 15%, respectively) were unaware of seat belt laws. Likewise, 8% and 11% drivers on the same roads were uninformed about the utility of seat belts. Vehicles with not fitted/faulty seat belts was a prominent reason for noncompliance stated by responding drivers on all roads except in Lahore City (12%, 16%, 20% , and 17% on M-2, N-5, expressway, and rural roads, respectively). Likewise, 18% and 20% drivers stated a lack of seat belt law enforcement on the expressway and SKP-GUJ rural road, respectively. Seventeen percent of drivers on M-2 did not comply with seat belt laws due to illness or discomfort. Forgot to wear a seat belt was a common reason on M-2 and N-5 (28% and 23%, respectively). In the urban area (Lahore City), most drivers (30%) shared the common misunderstanding that they were not in danger because they were driving slowly, and others believed that it is not necessary to wear a seat belt when traveling only a few miles. Seventeen and 14% of drivers in Lahore City and on rural roads are not accustomed to use seat belt use, while 12% drivers at M-2 admitted that their careless attitude is the reason for not wearing seat belt. Enforcement Strength of Seat Belt Laws The enforcement strength of seat belt laws on all 5 roads is reported in Table 4. Responding to a question, “Have you ever been penalized for not wearing seat belt violation on this road?” 49% and 41% of drivers on M-2 and N-5, respectively, replied “yes.” Eighty-eight and 90 percent of drivers on the expressway and rural roads, respectively, reported that they have never been penalized for a seat belt law violation. Seat belt law enforcement data show that the NH&MP penalized 31,197 and 21,202 drivers for noncompliance with seat belt laws on M-2 and N-5, respectively, in 2012 (computer Bauru NH&MP Islamabad, personal communication). Lahore City traffic police issued 3276 tickets to seat belt violators in the whole city, whereas Sheikhupura traffic police did not penalize a single driver during 2012 on the expressway and SKP-GUJ rural road (data record section, Punjab traffic police headquarters, Lahore). At each sampling point, a small number of drivers were unable to respond during the survey and provided answers other than those mentioned for each question in Tables 2–4. These are included in Tables 2–4 as “other.”
Discussion It is universally accepted that absolute prevention of traffic collisions is nearly impossible, but the consequential injuries and severity can be minimized by protective devices like seat belts, especially for drivers and front passengers (Kulanthayan et al. 2004). Seat belt use rates and factors influencing the use of seat belts among vehicle occupants in Pakistan were
Seat Belt Use in Pakistan
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Table 2. Reasons for driver’s seat belt use
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Results from all observation points (%) Question 1
Driver’s response
M-2
N-5
Expressway
Lahore City
Rural roads
Why do you wear seat belt? (If fastened)
Personal safety To avoid penalty No response Other
64 28 4 4
73 20 2 5
75 9 6 10
70 16 8 6
85 7 5 3
studied in this article. Overall seat belt use rates and compliance levels to this particular law are very low on all roads studied (Figures 1 and 2). The average seat belt use rate on all kinds of road is 20% which is low compared to countries like Australia (97%), the UK (96%), and the United States (84%; WHO 2013). Personal safety is a principal motivating factor for those drivers who wear seat belts, but their number is too low, so fear of penalty is complementary factor in compliance with seat belt laws. The awareness level on the effectiveness of wearing seat belts is very low among Pakistani drivers (Ahmed 2007). A high ratio of vehicles (mostly commercial passenger service vehicles [PSVs] and goods transport vehicles along with older model cars) on all roads are not fitted with safety belts or the seat belts are faulty (Table 3). These findings are in line with earlier findings of the National Transport Research Centre, Islamabad (1999) and Sangowawa et al. (2010). “I am ill,” “I feel discomfort,” and “I forgot to wear my seat belt” are common excuses given by drivers to avoid a penalty when stopped by a police officer. Some drivers have medical certificates with them as a proof of exemption from seat belt usage. An interesting relationship between speeding and seat belt use rates was found in this study (Table 3). Low rates of seat belt use are also attributed to the low perceived risk of being involved in an accident (Clisir and Letho 1996; DinhZahr et al. 2001). The results show that respondents felt that the seat belt is only needed for those traveling at high speeds and thus are less likely to comply with seat belt laws (Janssen 1994; Kulanthayan et al. 2004). In the absence of popular road safety concepts, a large number of drivers are not in the habit of wearing seat belts. This behavior is the result of low levels of education and awareness (Batool et al. 2012). A careless
attitude promotes nonuse of seat belts and Pakistani drivers exhibit this careless attitude on roads without any fear. This is supported by early findings of Kayani et al. (2012). This study reveals that seat belt use rates are directly proportional to the enforcement of seat belt laws (Figure 1). As the enforcement activities increases, compliance rates also increase (Kulanthayan 2001). This research work reflects the same trends; the seat belt use rates are directly proportional to seat belt law enforcement strength. Seat belt compliance rates are much higher on roads (M-2 and N-5) under the jurisdiction of the NH&MP. This is also in line with earlier and earlier study by Kaye et al. (1995). They found a similar relationship between enforcement activities and use of seat belts in Florida. Similar results were found by Williams et al. (1996) in North Carolina where enforcement increased the use of seat belts among drivers and front seat passengers. The rare use or nonuse of seat belts among front seat passengers on all Pakistani roads could also be attributed to the seat belt laws that only cover drivers. This research work indicates a dire need to improve seat belt use rates in Pakistan (Ahmed 2007; Khan et al. 2008). Existing seat belt laws in Pakistan need to be revised to cover all vehicles, occupants, and roads, in consultation with qualified road safety experts as per international standards (Ahmed 2007; Peden et al 2004; WHO 2013). Strict and visible enforcement of seat belt laws can provide immediate relief in reducing crash fatalities. For long-term compliance, modern concepts of intelligent enforcement need to be introduced. Need-based training of traffic laws enforcement agencies is mandatory. To assess optimal enforcement, regular research work should be conducted and findings should be shared with road safety stakeholders (Khoso et al 2011; WHO 2013).
Table 3. Reasons for nonuse of seat belts by drivers Results from all observation points (%) Question 2 Why do you not wear a seat belt? (if not fastened)
Driver’s response Unaware of law Unaware of usefulness Seat belt not fitted/faulty Lack of enforcement Illness/discomfort Forgot Short drive/low speed Not a habit Careless attitude No response Other
M-2
N-5
Expressway
Lahore City
Rural roads
6 3 12 3 17 28 3 6 12 2 8
9 6 16 4 7 23 5 8 8 4 10
10 8 20 18 9 5 7 11 5 3 4
8 5 7 9 7 3 30 17 2 6 6
15 11 17 20 4 2 8 14 3 3 5
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Table 4. Enforcement strength of seat belt laws on different roads as reported by drivers Results from all observation points (%) Question 3
Driver’s response
M-2
N-5
Expressway
Lahore City
Rural roads
Have you ever been penalized for a seat belt violation on this road?
Yes
49
41
5
10
2
No No response Other
43 3 5
50 8 1
88 3 4
80 3 7
90 4 4
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Acknowledgments The authors are thankful to Saqib Hussain Kazmi and Zia Abbas ACP (assistant computer programmer) for their assistance in preparation of this article. Trainee officers in the 15th lower class course are especially thanked for their contributions in data collection. Cordial thanks are due to Athar Waheed, Commandant NH&MP Training College, Sheikhupura, for his encouragement that acted as a catalyst in the completion of this research work.
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