Hundreds caught not wearing seatbelts across Hampshire

214 people chose not to wear a seatbelt in the region

Published 28th Jun 2021

The National Police Chiefs' Council seatbelt campaign ran from Monday 24th May until Sunday 13th June.

The Joint Operations Unit of Hampshire Constabulary and Thames Valley Police supported the campaign, stopping 342 vehicles in the Thames Valley, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

Officers highlighted the dangers to those who were not wearing or incorrectly wearing seatbelts as well as drivers with an unsuitable child seat.

214 people chose not to wear a seatbelt and were reported for the offence, while some may get the option to carry out the online diversion course, Your Belt, Your Life.

Drivers with pets that were not properly secured were also given advice on keeping them safe for future journeys.

Sgt Scott Kerr, Road Safety Sergeant for Hampshire and Thames Valley Police, said:

“The recent seatbelt campaign in May and June showed that the vast majority of people are wearing their seatbelts. This is very positive, as we know that wearing a seatbelt correctly saves lives.

“It does not matter how far you are travelling, every journey needs all occupants to buckle up. Research has shown that many collisions occur at low speed and within only a few miles of home.

“You are twice as likely to lose your life in a collision if you are not wearing a seatbelt. If unrestrained, you will hit the windscreen, or the front seat in the case of a rear seat passenger, at a force of 30 to 60 times your own body weight.

“Please wear a seat belt every time you travel in a vehicle. It's just not worth the risk.”

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