Drivers planning a family road trip have been advised to make sure they make one check that can help to avoid expensive fines and injuries. The used vehicle retailer Swansway Motor Group has warned motorists to make a vital check that could help to avoid fines and serious injuries whilst on long trips this summer.
The Express Online is reporting that with the school holidays underway, many families are set to travel to other parts of the country to see loved ones or go on a staycation.
A spokesperson for Swansway Motor Group recommended that drivers regularly check to make sure that their children have not unwittingly unbuckled their seatbelt. They explained: “It’s important to note that children can unknowingly put themselves in danger by undoing their seatbelts. This act of curiosity or restlessness can have severe consequences.
“That’s why drivers and adult passengers need to remain vigilant at all times and educate their young passengers about the importance of seatbelt safety. Before setting off, make it a non-negotiable rule that everyone, including adults, must be securely fastened in their seats.”
Whilst they can feel restrictive, particularly when travelling for lengthy periods of time, it is estimated that seatbelts have helped to save the lives of more than 50 million Brits since wearing one became mandatory in 1983.
However, in addition to keeping themselves safe, Swansway Motor Group highlighted that motorists must make sure that anyone under the age of 14 is not breaking any laws.
Drivers who do not act when their children unbuckle their seatbelt, which will typically cause a warning light or sound to appear, could risk fines of £500.
Swansway Motor Group’s spokesperson suggested that motorists who find out their child has unbuckled their seatbelt should pull over as soon as it is safe to do so.
They advised: “If a child does manage to unbuckle their seatbelt, it is imperative for the driver to find a safe place to pull over immediately and rectify the situation. Under no circumstances should the journey continue until every passenger is properly secured.
“This is not just about avoiding fines but ensuring the safety and well-being of all vehicle occupants.”
Before setting off for any road trips this summer, Swansway Motor Group recommended that motorists make sure that there are plenty of activities to keep their children occupied throughout the journey.
Packing items like books, toys or electronic devices can help to speed up the journey and stop young ones from messing around with dangerous components such as seatbelt buckets and door handles.
Similarly, the company also suggested that, if it is possible, an adult should sit next to any children in the vehicle to keep them entertained and stop any dangerous behaviour.
