Police Launch National Seatbelt Crackdown

Police across Wales have launched a two week long crackdown on drivers who don’t wear their seatbelts.

More than 2,000 motorists across Wales were prosecuted for not wearing a seatbelt during a similar campaign last year.

Nearly 100 people were also caught not wearing seatbelts throughout North Wales during a separate week-long campaign in September 2011.

This year the Welsh emergency services with support from councils and road safety groups will continue to make a robust effort to ensure all drivers and passengers buckle up.

It is estimated that every year more than 1,000 lives are saved in the UK as a direct result of wearing a seatbelt.

Motorists and passengers who choose to risk their lives by not wearing a seatbelt could receive a £60 Fixed Penalty Notice or a court imposed fine up to £500.

During the two week campaign, police officers will be carrying out targeted patrols to stop and if appropriate, fine drivers and passengers not wearing seatbelts.

Deputy Chief Constable Ian Shannon said: “It is disappointing that more than 2000 motorists in Wales were caught not wearing a seatbelt during last year’s campaign.

“The consequences of not belting up can be fatal and we are determined to reduce the number of deaths and serious injuries on our roads.

“We will continue to be robust to ensure all drivers and passengers wear seatbelts and pursue an active approach, all year round, to educate motorists and enforce seatbelt laws.”