Seatbelt offences across a major region have dropped by nearly 17 per cent over the past two years as the threat of hefty fines has forced drivers to follow the rules.
According to a Freedom of Information request, the significant decline across North Wales has suggested a growing shift in attitudes towards road safety, particularly among older drivers who have historically been less likely to wear seatbelts consistently.
The trend indicates that safety awareness campaigns and enforcement efforts may be having a positive impact on driver behaviour across the region.
The FOI data revealed that seatbelt non-compliance cases fell from 650 in 2022 to 540 in 2024, representing a 16.9 per cent reduction.
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Drivers can be fined up to £500 for failing to wear a seatbelt
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So far this year, 77 seatbelt offences have been recorded between January and March 2025, with analysis finding an average of 467 seatbelt offences committed across North Wales since 2022.
Chanel Boddington of Allen Leasing said: “Seatbelts are one of the most effective vehicle safety technologies, saving thousands of lives each year. It is vital to communicate the lifesaving importance of seatbelts to those around us.”
She noted that encouraging older adults to wear seatbelts can be challenging but remains essential for their safety and other road users.
But Boddington explained that several barriers remain in place that prevent older adults from using seatbelts regularly.
“Many older adults grew up before seatbelt laws were introduced and never developed the habit. They may also believe that seatbelts aren’t necessary for short drives,” she said.
Physical limitations can also play a role in non-compliance. “Mobility limitations caused by conditions such as arthritis can also make buckling a seatbelt difficult,” Boddington noted.
She suggested that “providing information on seat extenders, pads, or handles can make fastening a seatbelt more accessible and comfortable”.
Boddington offered advice on encouraging older adults to wear seatbelts, emphasising a balanced approach.
“Be direct but compassionate,” she advised. “For example, ‘I know you’ve been driving safely for decades, but these numbers can’t be ignored.”
For developing better habits, Boddington suggested “consistent, gentle reinforcement” including “placing small reminders in the car” and establishing routines like “putting on a seatbelt before starting the engine”.
“Don’t forget to celebrate the small wins as they all contribute to long-term behavioural change,” she concluded.
Under UK law, drivers and passengers must wear seatbelts when fitted in their seats, with only a few exceptions permitted. Drivers who fail to comply can face fines of up to £500.
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Rule 99 of the Highway Code requires drivers to make sure seatbelts are correctly used in carsGETTYThe law also requires drivers to ensure children under 14 are properly secured, either in appropriate car seats or wearing seatbelts depending on their age and height.
The declining number of seatbelt offences in North Wales suggests more drivers, particularly older ones, are recognising both the legal requirements and safety benefits of buckling up.
