Belt up or pay up

Hi Resident,

Wearing a seat belt could save you from a £500 fine. It could even save your life.

You’re twice as likely to die in a car crash if you don't wear a seat belt.

In 2024, 1 in 3 people killed in road collisions in Greater Manchester weren’t wearing a seat belt.

Before every car journey, make sure everyone in the car, front and back, is buckled up before setting off.

What’s the law?

Not wearing a seat belt in the car could result in a fine of up to £500.

You must wear a seat belt if one is fitted.

There are only a few exceptions as everyone should wear a seat belt for every journey.

See when you do not have to wear a seat belt.

Children must either be in a car seat, or wearing a standard seat belt, depending on their age and height.

Children must sit in an approved child seat, strapped in, until they are 135cm (4 feet 5 inches) tall, or until they are 12 years old (whichever comes first).

But it is advisable for children to use a child seat until they are 150 cm (5 feet) tall.

These rules apply to the front and back seats.

Find out more

See government advice about seat belts.