AMERICANS have been warned that they risk fines as part of a new road safety crackdown.
And, it’s not just drivers who will face the force of thelaw.
Passengers who are caught not wearing a seat belt are at risk of $25 fines after a law came into force on July 1.
Under the terms of the law, cops cannot just order a driver to stop regarding a seat belt offense.
But, they can enforce the law if they spot anyone in the car who isn’t strapped in, per the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles.
Rideshare drivers must also follow the rules of the seat-belt law.
The rule affects drivers across Virginia.
Lawmakers and state officials have welcomed the rollout of the measure
“This is a common-sense law that will have a life-saving impact,” W. Sheppard Miller III said.
“Too many lives are lost on our roads due to poor decisions, and one of those poor decisions is choosing not to wear a seat belt.
“Now—thanks to this new law—all Virginians of all ages sitting in the back seat or the front seat of a vehicle are required to wear their seat belt.”
The law is named after Christopher King, who was killed in a car accident in 2020.
King was not wearing a seat belt in the back seat of the car.
The passengers and driver in the car all survived the crash.
Virginia officials have recommended tips to drivers and passengers before they start journeys.
Children should be properly secured and drivers should check their passengers are all strapped in.
What defines ‘distracted driving’?
Distracted driving claims lives every year nationwide, and it’s 100% preventable
However, many drivers assume that distracted driving is limited to using their phone while behind the wheel.
While using a phone to text, call, send emails, scroll through or post to social media, and make or accept video calls is illegal nationwide, other behaviors can be just as distracting – and dangerous.
Other behaviors that distract drivers:
- Adjusting the radio or GPS
- Applying makeup in visor mirrors
- Eating and drinking, as it takes one or both hands from the wheel
- Reaching into the backseat to grab personal items
- Rummaging through a purse, glove box, or center console
Thankfully, driving distracted can be prevented. Here are some proven tactics to stay focused:
- Put your phone in “Do Not Disturb” or “Driving Mode,” as it temporarily pauses notifications, but will push a call or text through if urgent
- If distraction is difficult to avoid, put the phone in a safe place, like a purse, glove box, center console, or back seat
- If a text message or call needs to be sent or made, pull over and park
- Give the phone to a passenger when applicable to send a text or make a call
- Be a role model – practicing safe driving in front of impressionable passengers helps pass along safe behaviors
Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Connecticut Department of Transportation
States such as Texas were among those to champion the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s campaign Click It or Ticket program.
The campaign spanned two weeks from May 19 to June 1.
NHTSA bosses revealed 56% of people killed in nighttime crashes in 2023 were not wearing a seat belt.
Fines for not wearing seatbelts range from $25 to $200.
Americans in Texas risk penalties of up to $200.
Children under the age of eight must be strapped into a booster or safety seat – unless they are four feet, nine inches tall.
The driver could get fines of up to $250 if they’re not properly belted in.
Drivers risk a $25 fine under the crackdown[/caption]
