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 was 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.
Results: 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.