National campaign encourages motorists and passengers to belt up

Throughout April, our Durham Roads and Armed Policing team will be out across the county focusing on motorists and passengers that aren’t wearing a seatbelt, as part of a national campaign.

Although most drivers are fully aware of the potential consequences of not wearing a seatbelt, we’ll be educating those who refuse on the dangers of ignoring the law and how their decision puts others at risk.

Wearing a seatbelt reduces the risk of death for drivers by 50%, yet four unbelted young people were killed or seriously injured every week in 2022 according to THINK!

Reminder to motorists:

• Drivers are responsible for ensuring that suitable safety restraints are worn by all passengers under 14 years old.
• Passengers over 14 years old are responsible for wearing their own seat belt and can therefore face prosecution.
• The safest way for children to travel in cars is in an appropriate car seat. Children must use an appropriate child car restraint for their weight until they are 135cm tall, or their 12th birthday.
• Failure to wear a seat belt carries a fine of £100. If prosecuted, the maximum fine could be anything up to £500.

THINK! Always wear a seat belt.

We don’t want to be knocking on your loved ones door.

#LifeIsPrecious