Knowledge, attitude and use of seat belt among commercial drivers in Sokoto Metropolis

ABSTRACT

Background: Every year about 1.2 million people are killed on the world's roads and up to 50 million are injured or disabled as a result of road traffic accidents. The effectiveness of seat belt usage in reducing the severity of the sequelae of road traffic accidents is widely known. The aim of this study was to determine the knowledge, attitude and use of seat belt among commercial drivers in Sokoto Metropolis.Methods: The study design was cross-sectional and descriptive. Pre-tested, structured, interviewer administered questionnaires were used for data collection. Each correct response to the knowledge questions was scored one mark and wrong response or non-response was scored zero.Results: A total of 430 questionnaires were analyzed. The mean knowledge score (%) of the study subjects was high (64.8±17.7). Majority (57.9%) of the respondents had positive attitude towards compulsory use of seat belt. 363 (84.4%) of the respondents reported that they use seat belt when they drive. There were statistically significant associations between age (p<0.0001), ethnicity (p=0.02), education (p=0.001) as well as attendance of driving school (p=0.000002) and the reported use of seat belt.Conclusion: This study has identified high level of knowledge, positive attitude and reported use of seat belt. It is recommended that public awareness of the safety benefits of seat belts and strong enforcement are necessary to achieve optimal use of seat belt