Think You Don’t Need a Seatbelt? Think Again – Police Crack Down This April

Operation targets deadly driving habits across Devon and Cornwall

Devon & Cornwall Police has launched a month-long operation throughout April, focusing on seatbelt safety as part of the national Fatal Five campaign.

The Fatal Five campaign highlights the five most common driving behaviours linked to serious and fatal collisions:

• Not wearing a seatbelt

• Speeding

• Impaired driving (such as drink or drug driving)

• Distraction (like using a mobile phone)

• Careless driving (including poor observation and hazard awareness)

29% of road deaths weren’t wearing seatbelts

In 2024, 50 people lost their lives on the roads in Devon and Cornwall, and 550 were seriously injured. Of those who died, 29% were not wearing a seatbelt when they should have been.

Devon & Cornwall Police say their roads policing officers will be taking action this month against anyone found not wearing a seatbelt.

Risking lives – and facing fines

Failure to wear a seatbelt can result in a fine of up to £500. Drivers can also be fined if a child in the vehicle is not in a suitable restraint for their age, height and weight.

Inspector Dan Hickey said, “Wearing a seatbelt has been mandatory in UK law since 1983. There is absolutely no excuse for drivers or passengers not wearing a seatbelt. It is alarming that some people still fail to belt up or wear their seatbelts correctly.”

“By not wearing a seatbelt you increase the chances of being in a fatal or serious collision. People can’t rely on other safety devices such as airbags, which may not work if a seatbelt is not worn, as the necessary sensors will not be triggered.”

“We urge everyone to wear a seatbelt when travelling in a road vehicle. It only takes a few seconds to secure your own safety and that of your loved ones.”

Check if you’re exempt

Some people may be exempt from wearing a seatbelt for medical reasons. For more information, visit the UK Government website on seatbelt exemptions.

More information on seatbelt safety can be found on the Devon & Cornwall Police website.