The data shows that the proportion of car occupants who die in crashes while unrestrained drops to 23% for drivers and 19% for passengers in the front seat.
The DfT data covers accidents in Britain over the five-year period ending in 2023.
Fatality percentages among those not wearing a seatbelt increased from 21% in 2022 to 25% in 2023.
Between 2019 and 2023, the highest fatality rates were recorded between 10pm and 4am (around 50%) and on weekends (28% on Saturdays and 30% on Sundays).
The highest percentages of fatalities were also observed among males (29%) and individuals aged 35-44 (37%).
In response to the DfT analysis, RAC Foundation director Steve Gooding said: “It’s difficult to comprehend why anyone would choose not to wear a seat belt, given the life-saving protection it provides.
“Over recent decades, vehicle safety has advanced significantly, but these benefits are undermined if drivers and passengers neglect to use the safety systems designed to protect them.
“While increasing penalties for non-compliance or developing technology to prevent vehicles from moving without everyone belted up could be explored, the core issue remains one of personal responsibility.
“Parents, in particular, have a crucial role in modelling safe behaviour – ensuring that buckling up becomes second nature for their children by demonstrating it on every journey, however short.”
Punishment for not wearing a seat belt
If you're caught traveling in a vehicle without wearing a seatbelt, and none of the exemptions apply, you may receive an on-the-spot Fixed Penalty Notice of £100 (without penalty points).
The driver is responsible for ensuring children up to age 14 are wearing seat belts, and you may be fined for each child passenger not wearing one.
For passengers over 14, they are responsible for wearing their own seat belt. If caught without one, they could face a £100 fine.
Not wearing a seatbelt is not an endorsable offence, so it won’t add penalty points to your licence, nor will it affect your insurance at renewal time, as you’re not required to notify the insurer.
If the case is taken to court, the fine could increase to £500.
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