DRIVERS and passengers in Dumfries and Galloway are being urged to buckle up on every journey.
It comes as figures show that 21 per cent of those killed on Scotland’s roads over a five-year period were not wearing a seatbelt.
Now, Road Safety Scotland and Police Scotland have launched an impactful campaign highlighting the potentially devastating consequences of failing to wear a seatbelt – and are urging drivers and passengers in this area to belt up.
Research demonstrates that wearing a seatbelt reduces both fatal and non-fatal injuries in front and back-seat passengers. Despite this, 11 per cent of drivers admitted to not always wearing a seatbelt in the front or back of the car, while around one in five drivers (18 per cent) said they don’t think it’s important to wear a seatbelt in the back.
Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop this week said: “Fastening your seatbelt is one of the simplest actions you can take to protect yourself and others. In a collision, failing to wear a seatbelt can have devastating consequences – not only for the driver and passengers but for your loved ones.
“This campaign serves as an essential reminder to anyone travelling in a car: a seatbelt can mean the difference between life and death and it’s not just you who gets hurt. Make it a habit on every journey.”
The campaign stresses the importance of wearing a seatbelt at all times – regardless of time of day, length of journey, and whether you are driving on busy or quiet roads. It also reminds people that it is a legal requirement to wear a seatbelt while traveling in a taxi or private hire vehicle.
Chief Superintendent Hilary Sloan, head of road policing at Police Scotland, said: “Wearing a seatbelt isn’t optional, it’s the law. Our officers will engage with and educate drivers and passengers on the importance of seatbelts, but we will also continue to take appropriate enforcement action, with those caught not wearing a seatbelt facing a fine up to £500.
“Drivers should also remember they are legally responsible for ensuring passengers under 14 are using their seatbelts, with fines issued for every child not properly restrained.
“The evidence is clear – seatbelts reduce injuries and save lives. Don’t take an unnecessary risk – wear a seatbelt every time you travel.”
For more information go to roadsafety.scot.
