Child Restraint use and Seating Position in Motor Vehicles: An Observational Survey in Ibadan Metropolis, Nigeria

Abstract

This paper examined child restraint use by child passengers in motor vehicles and factors influencing its use and non-use. Observational surveys were conducted to determine the number of child passengers restrained, the type of restraint and its correct use at nursery and primary schools in Ibadan metropolis, Nigeria. Questionnaire was administered to drivers to obtain information on demographic characteristics, child restraint use, reasons for use and non-use, and barriers to their use. Multivariate logistic regression was used to analyse data. A total of 3,175 vehicles were observed. Most (62.3%) of the drivers used seat belt while only 6.8% of the 3,175 children observed were restrained. Out of the 215 children restrained, 56.9% of the child restraint seats were not placed properly in the vehicles while 43.1% were correctly placed in the rear middle position. Restraint misuse was indicated by premature adult seat belt use (11.9%). Factors associated with child restraint use include age of the child, vehicle type and driver seat belt use. Parents whose children use child restraint cited safety and safety as reasons for use of restraint. Reasons for non-use of child restraint include parental beliefs. Barriers to use of child restraints seats include child’s unwillingness and cost.