Police operation to target motorists not wearing a seatbelt

Cheshire Police is targeting those who do not wear a seatbelt while driving as part of a national campaign.

The operation runs from 24 May to 13 June and officers will be out on the county’s roads looking for anyone not wearing a seatbelt.

They will be stopping drivers if they, or their passengers, are found not to be wearing seatbelts and educating them on how critical they are in keeping them safe.

If you are caught without a seatbelt on you can receive a minimum fine of £100 and a maximum fine of £500. You can also be fined if a child under 14 isn’t in the correct car seat or wearing a seat belt.

The driver of the vehicle must ensure that the child has the correct car seat for their height or weight until they reach 135 centimetres tall, or they reach their 12th birthday, whichever is first.

Inspector for the Constabulary’s Serious and Complex Collision Investigation Unit, Steve Griffiths, said: “Wearing a seatbelt while driving should be common sense but there are still many drivers and passengers who fail to do so.

“Not wearing a seatbelt is one of the biggest killers on our roads. By not wearing one people are increasing their risk of death in a collision - why wouldn’t you spend a few seconds putting one on?

“It is important everyone is aware of the huge risks and dangers that come from not wearing a seatbelt and we are using this operation to highlight the consequences involved.”

John Dwyer, Police and Crime Commissioner for Cheshire, said: “Ensuring Cheshire’s roads are safer is one of my key priorities and during my term of office, I have ambitious plans to deliver initiatives that reduce the number of deaths and serious injuries on our roads.

“Not wearing a seatbelt is incredibly dangerous and is one the main factors in serious or fatal collisions. I am pleased that Cheshire Police is carrying out this enforcement activity to educate motorists of the dangers.”