Developing motor vehicle occupant protection programs in local health departments

Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for young people in America and a major national health threat. Unfortunately most crash victims do not use safety belts or child safety seats which could reduce or eliminate their injuries. This article describes how motor vehicle occupant protection issues have been introduced into local health departments in Michigan and how several of these health departments have developed programs to increase the proper use of child safety seats and safety belts in their communities.