2007 Motor Vehicle Occupant Safety Survey (Report)

This is the third report volume from NHTSA's large-sample national telephone survey, conducted in 2007, addressing occupant protection issues.  NHTSA has conducted the survey periodically since 1994.  Volume 3 presents the survey results pertaining to air bags.  It explores preferences, perceived utility, and concerns that the public has regarding air bags.
IMPLICATIONS FOR HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY:  The report shows broad public support for air bags, and a general awareness that air bags are not a substitute for seat belts.  But the data also suggest that some people are confused about the presence and location of air bags in their vehicles.  Moreover, drivers were less likely to report that their vehicles had warning labels about air bags if the vehicle was purchased used as opposed to new.  These points to gaps in how the public is being informed about air bags.