One in Five Drivers Admit to Breaking Seatbelt Law, Facing New Penalty Points
The Government has announced tougher penalties for law-breaking behind the wheel, specifically targeting seatbelt offences. Nearly one in five drivers admit they have broken this crucial safety law while driving, as part of a broader road safety crackdown.
Current and Planned Penalties
Currently, those caught not wearing a seatbelt face a fine of up to £500. However, planned Government changes will introduce additional penalty points on licences for such offences. These details were included in a new road safety strategy aimed at enhancing safety measures on UK roads.
Survey Findings on Seatbelt Use
Motoring experts at MoneySuperMarket conducted a survey revealing that 18% of drivers admitted to having driven without a seatbelt. Among these offenders, around 32% reported being caught and fined. There have been instances where motorists fastened the seatbelt but sat on top of it to avoid in-built safety warnings, highlighting ongoing issues with compliance.
Advanced Enforcement Technology
Police are leveraging advanced technology to catch offenders. New cameras can now detect if a driver is not wearing a seatbelt, and these systems are expected to be rolled out more widely across UK roads in the coming years. This move aims to deter drivers who assume they would never be caught.
Expert Insights and Warnings
Alicia Hempsted, a motoring expert at MoneySuperMarket, emphasized the importance of seatbelt use. She stated, "Seatbelts are one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce injury and save lives on the road, so it’s concerning that a significant number of UK drivers admit to not wearing them when behind the wheel." She added that insurers use penalty points as a risk measure, meaning the proposed changes could lead to higher insurance premiums for offenders.
Exceptions to the Law
There are limited exceptions to the seatbelt law, including:
- When reversing a vehicle
- Licensed taxi drivers of private hire vehicles in specific circumstances
- Certain delivery drivers
- People who are medically exempt, provided they keep their certificate in the vehicle and inform their insurer
For the majority of drivers, the message remains clear: wearing a seatbelt is not just about avoiding fines—it is a critical measure for saving lives on the road.
