The following prospective study was undertaken to evaluate the effects of safety belt use in injuries and health care costs, specifically in pediatric and elderly population. Trauma resulting from motor vehicle accidents (MVA) is currently the leading cause of death in young people and the seventh leading cause of death overall in the United States. Statistically Americans can expect to be involved in an MVA every 10 years and has a 33% chance of sustaining a disabling injury during a lifetime of driving. 1.3 million years of potential life before age 65 years were lost in 1984 as a result of MVA associated injuries. The overall economic loss to the U.S. attributable to MVA's in 1980 has been estimated to be $57.2 billion. (A) For the covering abstract of the conference, see IRRD 837684.
Samenvatting