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Seat belts are one of the key means of protecting the driver and passengers in the event of an accident. Their use significantly reduces the risk of serious injuries or death. In Ukraine, the law obliges all road users to use seat belts, and violation of this rule can lead not only to increased risk while driving, but also to fines, RBC-Ukraine reminds.
Is it mandatory to fasten your seatbelt?
According to paragraph 2.3 “c” of the Road Traffic Rules of Ukraine, the driver must be buckled up and is not allowed to transport unbuckled passengersExceptions are made only for people with disabilities, as well as for drivers of special and emergency vehicles.
Regarding passengers, paragraph 5.2 “b” of the Traffic Regulations provides that they are also required to use seat belts if the vehicle is equipped with them.
How much will you have to pay for the violation?
According to Part 5 of Article 121 of the Code of Ukraine on Administrative Offenses (COA), for violation of the requirements for the use of seat belts, fine of 510 hryvnias.
Responsibility lies with:
- Driver, if he allowed the passenger to remain unbelted.
- The passenger himselfif you refused to buckle up.
Do I need to fasten my seatbelt in a taxi?
There is a belief that taxi passengers may not use seat belts, but this is not true. The law requires both the taxi driver and all passengers to wear seat belts. If a passenger refuses to comply with this requirement, the driver has the right to demand that they wear seat belts or even refuse to drive. In the event of a police check, both the passenger and the driver may be fined.
Transportation of children and special requirements
According to current legislation, children up to 145 cm tall must be transported in special car seats or booster seatsUsing seat belts without a child seat is considered a violation and may result in a fine.
Who has the right to impose fines?
If a violation is recorded, an administrative fine may be imposed. National Police of Ukraine. According to Article 222 of the Code of Administrative Offenses:
- Patrol police officers have the right to issue a fine on the spot.
- Judicial authorities consider cases in case of appeal against the imposed penalty.
Can there be criminal liability?
The mere fact of driving without a seat belt is not grounds for criminal prosecution. However, in the event of an accident where a passenger is injured due to the absence of a seat belt, the driver may suffer serious consequences:
- Fine from 51 to 000 hryvnias.
- Correctional work up to 2 years.
- Arrest for up to 6 months or restriction of liberty for up to 3 years.
- If a passenger dies, imprisonment for a term of 3 to 8 years is possible..
In addition, in cases of serious consequences, the court may deprive the driver of the right to drive for a period of up to 3 years.
How to avoid a fine and increase safety?
To avoid danger and not get a fine, follow these simple rules:
- Always fasten your seat belt no matter where you are sitting.
- Make sure all passengers are also buckled up.
- Remind them to fasten their seat belts before starting to drive.
- Explain to others that using a seat belt significantly reduces the risk of injury in the event of an accident.
Following these recommendations will help save lives and avoid financial losses.
