The UK government is proposing to introduce penalty points for drivers caught not wearing a seatbelt, moving beyond the current fine-only system. The measure is part of a new Road Safety Strategy published by the Department for Transport (DfT) last week, aimed at reducing casualties and improving safety on Britain's roads.
Under the proposals, motorists could also face prosecution for failing to ensure children wear seatbelts. The change is designed to increase deterrence and address high fatality rates linked to non-compliance. Repeat offenders could see increased insurance costs and potential licence suspension.
The DfT's strategy includes broader initiatives such as tackling 'ghost' number plates and potentially lowering the drink-driving limit. A formal consultation is underway to gather feedback on the proposals, which represent the most comprehensive reform of driving laws since the Road Safety Act 2006.
Data from Safer Roads Greater Manchester revealed the scale of the issue, with technology identifying 2,400 people not wearing seatbelts in just 51 days at one location last year. Research by PACTS found that in 2023, one-in-four car occupants who died in collisions in Great Britain, where seatbelt status was known, were not wearing one. In 2024, 25% of car occupant fatalities were unbelted.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said: 'Every life lost on our roads is a tragedy that devastates families and communities. For too long, progress on road safety has stalled. This strategy marks a turning point.' Geoff Collins, General Manager of Acusensus UK, noted that the change will affect insurance costs and could lead to licence loss, making drivers take notice.
