A recent observational study conducted by Nobina,the Nordic region’s largest public transport company,has revealed a concerning safety issue: a shockingly low percentage of bus passengers are using seat belts. The survey, which took place in October and November 2024 across several regions in Sweden, highlights a significant discrepancy between existing legislation and actual passenger behavior. Despite the fact that seat belt use has been legally required on buses since 1999, the Nobina study found that only about 10 percent of bus travelers are buckling up.

The comprehensive study encompassed 1,616 bus trips throughout the Stockholm region, Västra Götaland, Skåne, Halland, Värmland, Sörmland, and Östergötland. Researchers observed a total of 24,831 travelers, with a mere 2,408 of them using a seat belt. This stark statistic underscores the urgent need for increased awareness campaigns and stricter enforcement of existing safety regulations to protect passengers.

While bus travel remains statistically the safest mode of transportation on Nordic roads, the alarmingly low rate of seat belt usage raises serious concerns about the potential for injuries in the event of an accident. Nobina’s findings suggest that a multi-faceted approach is essential to improve passenger safety, including enhanced public education initiatives, more rigorous enforcement of existing laws, and the implementation of technological solutions to encourage seat belt use.

Regional Variations and Overall Trends

The Nobina study also revealed regional variations in seat belt usage across Sweden. When adjusted for the Stockholm region, seat belt usage in public transport rises to approximately 18 percent. While this represents an improvement compared to the overall average, it still falls far short of the desired level and highlights the need for targeted interventions to promote seat belt use across all regions of the country.

The study’s findings are consistent with previous surveys, indicating that the issue of low seat belt usage on buses is a persistent problem that requires sustained attention and effort. This underscores the importance of addressing the underlying causes and implementing effective strategies to improve passenger safety and ensure compliance with existing regulations.

Industry Response and the Vision Zero Initiative

Martin Pagrotsky, CEO of Nobina Sweden, emphasized the critical need for collaborative action to address the issue of low seat belt usage on public buses.The study, which is the largest in its kind, clearly shows that we have a long way to go in the security work of public transport and in the work towards Sweden’s zero vision. Pagrotsky added, A work that we in the industry need to drive together with authorities, and our travelers. From data and knowledge, to controls and culture, where belt in public transport becomes as obvious as that day has become when we drive.

Sweden’s “Vision Zero” initiative, an ambitious plan to eliminate all traffic fatalities and serious injuries, faces a significant challenge due to the low rate of seat belt usage on buses. Nobina’s study serves as a wake-up call, highlighting the urgent need for renewed efforts to promote a culture of safety and responsibility on public transportation and to ensure that all passengers are protected.

Reasons for Low Seat Belt Usage

While the Nobina survey did not include in-depth interviews with passengers, previous research has identified several factors that contribute to the low rate of seat belt usage on buses. These include:

• Lack of knowledge: Many travelers are unaware of the legal requirements for seat belt use on buses and underestimate the potential risks involved in not wearing one.
• Inadequate Facts: The information, signage, and reminders on buses may not be as effective as those in passenger cars, leading to confusion and non-compliance.
• Perceived Inconvenience: Some passengers find it time-consuming or complicated to fasten their seat belts, especially for short trips, leading them to forgo this crucial safety measure.
• Cultural Norms: the perception that “few others do” can discourage seat belt use, creating a cycle of non-compliance and increased risk.
• Unclear Legislation: The fact that it is indeed legal to stand on a bus, while seat belt use is required for seated passengers, can create confusion and ambiguity regarding the rules.
• Lack of Enforcement: The rarity of police checks for compliance contributes to the problem, as passengers are less likely to comply with regulations that are not actively enforced.

Moving Forward: A Call to Action

John Abbate, traffic safety manager at Nobina Sweden, expressed hope that the study would serve as a catalyst for change and increased awareness. Although there is a legal use on belt use since 1999, it is obvious that knowledge and use are low. I hope this study can become an alarm clock among our travelers and throughout society. Contribute to knowledge, discussion and, above all, a cultural change, where security comes first, Abbate stated.

abbate also emphasized the importance of collaboration between stakeholders to address this critical safety issue. That we together with our clients and authorities can work with information campaigns, clearer signage and information aboard the buses, technical solutions and more controls. As even if the bus is the safest means of transport on our roads so belts can save lives, he concluded.

Nobina’s study underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive and collaborative strategy to improve seat belt usage on public buses throughout the Nordic region. By addressing the underlying causes and implementing effective interventions, stakeholders can work together to create a safer and more secure transportation surroundings for all passengers.