The results of a seatbelt observation survey, carried out in the autumn of 2021
The Government has said it is considering introducing penalty points for seatbelt offences.
Responding to a parliamentary question from Barry Sheerman, the then roads minister Katherine Fletcher said the percentage of car occupants killed in 2021 who were failing to wear a seatbelt was “unacceptably high”.
She said the Government is considering its options, including penalty points.
Ms Fletcher said: “The DfT knows that in 2021, in 30% of all car occupant fatalities recorded, seat belts were not worn. This is unacceptably high, and we have been considering options to tackle this including the potential merits of introducing penalty points.
“This might form part of the DfT’s planned call for evidence on motoring offences.”
Since answering the question on 27 October, Ms Fletcher has left the DfT, according to its website.
At present, drivers and passengers caught failing to wear a seatbelt face an on-the-spot fine of £100, and, if prosecuted, can face a maximum fine of £500.
The RAC has welcomed the idea of penalty points, but warns additional enforcement is also needed to address the issue.
Simon Williams, RAC road safety spokesman, said: “It’s irrefutable that seatbelts save lives, yet the sad reality is that in 30% of fatal collisions a seatbelt was not being worn. These stark figures underline just how important it is to buckle up in both the front and the rear of the car.
“Putting points on the licences of offenders would be a welcome move, but this must be accompanied by better enforcement.
“While up until this point offenders had to be caught not wearing a seatbelt by a police officer, there is now camera technology on trial in the UK that can make the process far simpler and more effective.”
The results of an observation survey, carried out by the Government in the autumn of 2021, found more than 5% of drivers (in all vehicle types) were not wearing a seatbelt.
There was a similar figure for front seat passengers – while non-compliance rates rose to more than 8% among rear seat passengers.
Very good to see the DfT acknowledge the seat belt problem and considering penalty points. As one of the Fatal Four, the penalty is laughably low. Points alone won’t solve things but they are a missing tool in the box.
See https://www.pacts.org.uk/pacts-launches-new-report-seat-belts-time-for-action/
David Davies, London
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