Not only could not wearing a seatbelt result in death or injury but drivers caught without a seatbelt face an on-the-spot fine of £100 plus a maximum fine of £500 if prosecuted.
Fifty years since the legal requirement to wear a seatbelt came into force
- Jan 5, 2016
- EmmaArnold
This week marks the 50th anniversary of the law making it compulsory to wear a seatbelt in the UK.
In 1966, all new cars were made seatbelt fittings and it has revolutionised the way we look after our safety today.
According to statistics, you are twice as likely to die in a car crash if you don't wear a seatbelt and THINK! campaigns have played a crucial part in reminding the public of safety risks.
You can see a montage of THINK! videos below which shows the range of campaigns from the government to encourage people to wear a seatbelt.
The number of people wearing seatbelts has consistently been above 90% with a peak of 98% recorded in 2014. So, although the majority of the public do wear a seatbelt, many still risk their safety and the safety of others by not wearing one.
Hugh Potter, Partner and Head of Personal Injury at PotterReesDolan, has dealt with many claims where passengers and drivers have not worn a seatbelt. He said:
Wear them! Too many don’t despite all the evidence. Particularly the passengers of young drivers.
During a week-long campaign, almost 3,000 offences of not wearing a seatbelt were recorded which shows how some people still don't follow the legal requirement and safety measure.