Buckle up on the bus! Implementation and evaluation of the effects of seat belt reminder systems in buses
Bus travel is one of the safest modes of transport, but in the crashes that do occur, seat belt use has been shown to make the difference between fatal outcomes and minor injuries. At the same time, seat belt use among bus passengers remains low. According to the Swedish Transport Administration’s traffic safety survey, only 38 percent of respondents report using a seat belt on buses when one is available. Observational studies indicate an even lower rate.
In passenger cars, seat belt use stands at 97 percent. This is the result of a combination of measures, but above all the introduction of seat belt reminder systems, which are now standard in all passenger cars. Seat belt reminder systems for buses have been discussed previously, particularly following the bus crash in Sveg, but such systems have yet to be implemented in practice.
This project will test and evaluate a seat belt reminder system in real-world bus operations. In autumn 2026, the system will be installed on a bus operated by Nobina on behalf of Hallandstrafiken on the route between Halmstad and Hylte. Each seat on the bus will be equipped with an individual seat belt reminder that provides feedback directly to the passenger.
The purpose of the project is to investigate the functionality of the seat belt reminder system, its effect on seat belt use, associated costs, and other conditions relevant to wider implementation in Sweden and internationally. Through observations and interviews, the project will explore passengers’ perceptions of the seat belt reminder system and how it influences their use of seat belts.
The project is being carried out in collaboration with industry stakeholders, including the Swedish Bus and Coach Federation, Nobina, Hallandstrafiken and Holmbergs Safety Systems. Lund University (LTH) is responsible for the scientific evaluation, while the Swedish National Society for Road Safety (NTF) provides field staff for the observational studies.