236 people fined in seatbelt campaign

MORE than 200 motorists and passengers were fined during a week-long seatbelt campaign by Norfolk Police. The operation, which aimed to raise awareness of the dangers of not wearing a seatbelt, saw 236 people issued with a �30 fixed penalty notice.

MORE than 200 motorists and passengers were fined during a week-long seatbelt campaign by Norfolk Police.

The operation, which aimed to raise awareness of the dangers of not wearing a seatbelt, saw 236 people issued with a �30 fixed penalty notice.

Officers carried out spot checks on vehicles throughout the county and found 235 adults and one child were found not to be wearing a seatbelt.

Police said the results highlight that many motorists are still not taking heed of the message and importance of wearing a seat belt.

Insp Darren Elliott, said: “I am very disappointed at the high number of prosecutions, despite high profile safety campaigns the message still doesn't appear to be getting through to a significant number of motorists of the importance of wearing a seat belt.”

Casualty reduction officer, PC Michael Edney, said drivers who failed to wear seatbelts were not only putting themselves in danger of death and serious injury, but also their passengers. “It is always the driver's responsibility to ensure that children are properly restrained,” he said.

“Putting on your seatbelt should be part of your routine before even starting your car, this is necessary for those travelling in the front and rear seats. Often many people do not wear a seatbelt in the back and are not aware how dangerous it can be.

“International research and experience shows the use of seatbelts reduces serious and fatal injuries to drivers and passengers by around 50pc.”