New Study Shows Increased Seatbelt Use in Massachusetts
BRAINTREE — During 2025, more Massachusetts road users than ever are likely to use their seatbelts to ensure safe travels. A new study found that seatbelt use in Massachusetts has increased for the third year in a row, marking the state’s highest seatbelt usage rate on record. The Healey-Driscoll administration commended the collaborative efforts led by state and local agencies to achieve this result.
The 2025 Massachusetts Safety Belt Observational Study, which is conducted annually, reported a seatbelt usage rate of 85.53%, an increase over the state’s 2024 usage rate of 84.36%. Specifically, the report found that the state successfully increased seatbelt use among demographics that have historically had lower usage rates. This marks the third year in a row that Massachusetts has achieved an overall increase in seatbelt use.
In addition, Massachusetts experienced fewer fatal crashes in 2025 than in the previous year. MassDOT has recorded 342 fatal motor vehicle crashes in 2025, compared to 364 in 2024.
“We know that seatbelts save lives, and it’s so important that seatbelt usage continues to increase every year in Massachusetts,” Gov. Maura Healey said. “We’re grateful for the hard work of our partners in transportation, public safety, and local governments to enhance safety on the roads for us all.”
The annual study is mandated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The study has been conducted every year in Massachusetts except 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Usage rates dipped in 2021 and 2022 before returning to their upward trend. Since 2015, seatbelt use in Massachusetts has increased by more than 10%.
“Everyone has a role to play in keeping our roads safe, and wearing a seatbelt is one of the simplest steps we can take to protect ourselves and the people we care about,” Public Safety and Security Secretary Gina Kwon said. “When drivers and passengers buckle up every time, they help prevent serious injuries and make travel safer for families and communities across the Commonwealth.”
Massachusetts law states that a driver stopped by police may receive a citation if not wearing a seatbelt or for any passenger who is unrestrained or not in a proper child safety seat (for children age 8 or younger who are under 57 inches tall). Any passenger age 16 or older found not wearing a seatbelt can also receive a citation.