Almost 3,500 charged by N.S. RCMP for not wearing or incorrectly wearing a seat belt in 2018

NEWS RELEASE
NOVA SCOTIA RCMP
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Nova Scotia RCMP is reminding motorists that buckling up is one of the best ways to improve the chances of survival in a collision.

In 27 per cent of fatal collisions Nova Scotia RCMP responded to in 2018, at least one person was not wearing their seat belt or was wearing one incorrectly. This tragic reality is why the RCMP uses enforcement to encourage motorists to buckle up. In 2018, Nova Scotia laid over 3,450 charges for not wearing a seat belt or wearing one incorrectly.

“Seat belts are designed to protect you in a way that nothing else can and they greatly increase your chances of survival in a collision,” says Cst. Chad Morrison of the Nova Scotia RCMP. “Seat belts are very important because they're your last line of defence.”

A seat belt should be used properly and be in good condition. It should only be worn as directed by the manufacturer (for example, a shoulder strap should not be tucked behind the back). Improperly wearing or altering a seat belt in Nova Scotia can result in the same consequences as not wearing one at all. Fines start at $180 and add two points to your licence.

The driver is responsible for ensuring that passengers under 16 are wearing a seat belt. Children can use an adult seat belt when they are nine years old or 4-foot-9 (145 cm). Otherwise, kids must be buckled in using a car seat or booster seat. Parents and guardians can help kids stay safe by enforcing and modelling good seat belt habits.

Nova Scotia RCMP will be giving you a behind-the-scenes look at what happens roadside by live tweeting a seat belt enforcement project in March. Follow @RCMPNS on Twitter for more details, which will be announced soon.

Nova Scotia RCMP asks every motorist to do their part to protect themselves and others by buckling up every time they get into a vehicle. 
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