Drivers are being warned to follow the rules to avoid a big fine as new cameras begin operation in the UK. Failing to stick to certain driving rules is not against the law – you’ll often get a financial penalty as well if you are caught.
This includes potential fines of up to £500 for seatbelt errors. Graham Conway, managing director at Select Car Leasing, has revealed that new AI camera technology is currently being tested to catch those not wearing their seatbelts, with penalties reaching into the hundreds.
He explained that aside from being spotted by patrolling officers, safety camera vans are fitted with laser cameras that can identify drivers who aren’t wearing a seatbelt, are speeding or using a mobile phone. Additionally, cutting-edge enforcement cameras, which utilise artificial intelligence (AI) to spot poor driver behaviour – including failure to fasten seatbelts – are now being introduced.
These cameras are part of a regional trial currently taking place in Manchester. Graham stated that the penalty for not correctly wearing your seatbelt could involve an immediate fine of £100, which could rise to £500 if the case ends up in court.
Additional consequences could include a compulsory online course and points on your licence, reports Lancs Live. “You can also be required to complete a compulsory online education course, with fees for this service ranging between £54 and £95,” added Graham.
“Your Belt Your Life (YBYL) and What’s Driving Us? (WDU) courses are given to people who have failed to use a seat belt or who have flouted child seat rules. The courses are 30 minutes long and have a test at the end, with motorists needing to pass.”
He added: “Drivers can receive three penalty points on their licence alongside a fine, particularly in cases where passengers under the age of 14 are not wearing their belts, as this responsibility falls to the driver of the vehicle. Those aged 14 or older are responsible for their own belts.”
How to wear your seatbelt safely
- Do not tuck your belt under your arm – this defeats the purpose of wearing the belt and will not provide much protection in an accident.
- You should pull the belt across your body, with the lap belt fitting snugly across your hips and not your stomach
- You must ensure that there is nothing in your shirt pocket that could cause further damage in an accident – this includes pens, pins, keys or phones – these, among any other item, can cause damage if pushed into the body
- Buckle the belt, ensuring you hear the clicking sound, and tighten the belt if needed by pulling the shoulder belt
- The shoulder belt should cross over your chest and shoulder, and not cover your neck. If this is happening, you should adjust your seat position – or use the seat belt height adjustment toggle located on the side pillar of the vehicle’s interior
- Check for any twists in the shoulder belt, which can be particularly dangerous in the event of a collision. Always ensure belt webbing is straight and not twisted so that it can do its job should you crash. While a minor consideration, a twisted seat belt can also cause damage to your clothing
- As a driver, you should always adjust your seat so you are in a comfortable position to reach the pedals and wheels
According to Graham you can be exempt from wearing a belt if you are:
- In a vehicle being used for police, fire and rescue services
- A driver who is reversing, or supervising a learner driver who is reversing
- A licensed taxi driver who is looking for customers either by being hailed in the street or by waiting at a taxi rank (known as ‘plying for hire’)
- Driving a goods vehicle on deliveries that is travelling no more than 50 metres between stops
- A licensed taxi driver or a driver of a private hire vehicle who is carrying passengers
- A passenger in a trade vehicle and you’re investigating a fault
There are also certain medical exemptions that allow motorists to not wear a belt. These exemptions must be provided by a doctor with a Certificate of Exemption from Compulsory Seat Belt Wearing – and this must be kept in your vehicle and shown to the police if you are stopped.