Belt up: wear a seat belt in the car

You’re twice as likely to survive a crash by wearing a seat belt.

In 2020, 1 in 4 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.

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

It’s quick and easy to belt up and could mean the difference between life or death.

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What’s the law?

Seat belts

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.

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Child seats

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.

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Find out more

See government advice about seat belts.