Seatbelts
Seatbelt Rules
Seatbelts save lives and significantly reduce the risk of injury. Unless you are exempt, you must wear a seatbelt whenever one is available.
The table below outlines the legal requirements for wearing seatbelts. Always ensure that seatbelts are properly adjusted and comfortable, with both the lap and diagonal straps (where fitted) positioned correctly to protect the body.
Drivers are legally responsible for making sure that all children under the age of 14 wear a seatbelt or use an approved child restraint.
You may temporarily remove your seatbelt while performing a manoeuvre that involves reversing. However, you must refasten it immediately once the manoeuvre is complete.
If an inertia reel seatbelt becomes locked due to the vehicle being parked on a slope, you may move the vehicle slightly to release the mechanism. As soon as it unlocks, stop and fasten the belt.
| Front seat - All vehicles | Rear seat - Cars and minibuses* | |
| Driver | Seatbelt MUST be worn if fitted | N/A |
| Child under 3 years old | Correct child restraint MUST be used | Correct child restraint MUST be used* |
| Child from 3rd birthday up to 1.35m in height (or 12th birthday, whichever comes first) | Correct child restraint MUST be used | Correct child restraint MUST be used where seatbelts fitted** |
| Child over 1.35m (approximately 4ft 5ins) in height, or 12 or 13 years | Adult seatbelt MUST be worn if available | Adult seatbelt MUST be worn if available |
| Adult passengers aged 14 years and over | Seatbelt MUST be worn if available | Seatbelt MUST be worn if available |
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If an appropriate child restraint is not available in a licensed taxi or private hire vehicle, the child may travel unrestrained.
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If a suitable child restraint is unavailable in a licensed taxi or private hire vehicle, for an unexpected short journey, or when two occupied restraints prevent fitting a third, an adult seat belt must be worn.
Carrying Children
When carrying children under 1.35 metres tall, you must use a child restraint appropriate to their weight and size. Types of restraint include:
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Baby seat
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Child seat
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Booster seat
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Booster cushion
Child restraints must be fitted correctly, following the manufacturer’s instructions. If unsure, seek professional advice.
Adults must not use a single seat belt to restrain both themselves and a child on their lap. This is illegal and could cause severe or fatal injuries to the child in a crash.
When travelling with children, ensure that:
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They are properly supervised at all times.
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Child safety door locks are engaged, where available.
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They do not travel behind the rear seats of an estate or hatchback vehicle unless a suitable child seat has been fitted.
Airbags
Never use a rear-facing child seat in a position protected by an active airbag. In a collision, the airbag could strike the child seat with great force, causing serious or fatal injuries.
Smoking in Vehicles
It is illegal to smoke in a private enclosed vehicle if anyone under 18 is present.
This means it is an offence:
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For anyone, regardless of age, to smoke in a private vehicle carrying someone under 18.
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For a driver (including a provisional driver) to fail to prevent someone from smoking when an occupant under 18 is present.
These rules do not apply to e-cigarettes.