Tennessee's Seatbelt Usage

The Tennessee Highway Safety Office has announced results from its 2025 annual roadside observational survey to determine the state’s average seat belt usage rate. 

The survey, conducted during March, April, and May of last year, returned a statewide usage rate of 91.3%. This represents a decrease of approximately 0.9%. compared to Tennessee’s 2024 survey result of 92.2%, however, the 2025 survey result is above the national average of 90%. 

Every year, the Tennessee Highway Safety Office works to increase the state’s seat belt usage rate by collaborating with state and local partners through Tennessee Highway Safety Office grant-funded programs like Ollie Otter, Reduce TN Crashes, Rule the Road, and Tennessee’s Occupant Protection Coalition. 

Research data was collected at 190 pre-identified roadway locations in 16 sample counties across Tennessee, and
researchers observed almost 27,000 vehicle occupants. Vehicles observed included passenger cars, pickup trucks, 
vans, and sports utility vehicles.