Beep Beep! New Seat Belt Alerts Push for Safety
Since the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) started rating seat belt reminders in 2022, automakers have ramped up their efforts to make these alerts louder and longer-lasting. In just two years, the number of new vehicles receiving a “good” rating for their seat belt reminders has shot up. Now, 62% of 2024 models tested have earned this top score, compared to just 17% of models in 2022.
The IIHS rates seat belt reminders from “good” to “poor.” To earn a good rating, a vehicle needs a reminder that is loud enough and lasts at least 90 seconds if someone up front isn’t buckled in. It also requires reminders for rear seats that last at least 30 seconds. By contrast, current federal regulations only require a quick four-to-eight-second alert for unbuckled drivers.
Thanks to simple software changes, brands have significantly improved their reminders. Some vehicles won’t stop alerting until everyone is buckled up, while others also include reminders for third-row seats. The quick response shows that car manufacturers are paying attention to the IIHS’s ratings and are committed to making vehicles safer.
Here are the vehicles and model years that recently earned a “good” rating:
- Acura MDX (2025)
- Ford Escape (2023-2024)
- Ford Expedition (2024)
- Ford Maverick (2023-2024)
- Honda CR-V (2023-2024)
- Honda HR-V (2023-2024)
- Honda Odyssey (2025)
- Honda Pilot (2023-2025)
- Hyundai Tucson (2024)
- Mazda CX-5 (2023-2024)
- Mercedes-Benz C-Class (2023-2024)
- Nissan Altima (2023-2024)
- Subaru Crosstrek (2024)
- Toyota Corolla Hatchback (2023-2024)
- Toyota Corolla Sedan (2023-2024)
- Toyota RAV4 (2023-2024)
- Toyota Tacoma (2024)
- Volvo XC40 (2023-2024)
This change could save lives. Research shows that louder, longer-lasting reminders increase seat belt use by around 30%, potentially preventing up to 1,600 yearly deaths.
For many people, seat belt reminders might seem like a small thing. However, they play a crucial role in road safety. According to the IIHS, half of the people killed in front-seat crashes were wearing their seat belts, and even fewer were buckled up in the back. While nearly everyone agrees that seat belts save lives, part-time seat belt users often forget to buckle up on short trips. That’s where these persistent reminders come in.
Imagine being in a car where the alert doesn’t stop until everyone is safely strapped in. Knowing that even their youngest passengers are protected could mean greater peace of mind for families. As for busy commuters, these reminders could be a lifesaver on those quick, everyday trips when buckling up might slip their minds.
The IIHS’s push for better seat belt reminders has spurred automakers to act quickly, making these reminders more than just an annoying beep. They’re becoming essential to everyday driving, keeping more people safe. With automakers listening to the IIHS and responding with improved safety features, we’ll likely see even more vehicles with top-rated reminders shortly.
For now, drivers can rest a little easier knowing that car companies are doing their part to promote seat belt use, one beep at a time.