THSO announces results of 2025 seat belt survey

While seat belt usage is on the decline in Tennessee, it still exceeds the national rate. Results from the Tennessee Highway Safety Office (THSO) annual roadside observational study determined a usage rate of 91.3% in 2025, a decrease of 0.9% over 2024 but still higher than the national rate of 90%. The 2025 rate is also the fourth-highest recorded annual seat belt usage rate and marks the seventh consecutive year of a rate exceeding 90%. THSP Director Buddy Lewis said seat belt usage reduces the risk of fatal injury in an auto accident by 50%.