In 1981, there were 43,142 road traffic accidents in Singapore resulting in 12,755 casualties with 273 deaths. The fatality rate is calculated at 6.79 per 10,000 vehicles, a figure that is high when compared with developed countries but low in comparison within the surrounding region. Various measures have been taken by the Government to lower this figure; by education, legislation, persuasion and law enforcement. The latest legislation is the seat belt law. The result of a survey on the effect of this has shown an appreciable reduction in injuries sustained.