Objectives. This study assessed the effectiveness of a comprehensive
campaign to increase seat belt use in Athens.
Methods. In 1996 a survey focusing on seat belt use nias undertaken
among occupants of 1400 passenger cars. From October 1997 to June 1998
the campaign was implemented; during the campaign, seat belt law
enforcement was not intensified. In 1998 another inspection survey of
2250 cars was undertaken.
. The program brought only a 6% increase in compliance, but there was
an estimated gain of about 50 averted deaths and 1500 averted injuries.
Conclusions. An intensive campaign to increase seat belt use, conducted
in the absence of increased law enforcement, resulted in moderate gains
