What is the penalty for not wearing a seat belt?

Not wearing a seat belt carries significant penalties because it poses a serious risk to both the individual and other road users in the event of a collision. In New South Wales, the law emphasizes the importance of seat belt use for safety. When a driver or passenger is caught not wearing a seat belt, they typically face both a monetary fine and demerit points added to their driving record.

The financial penalty serves to encourage compliance with safety laws, while the points system acts as a deterrent against repeated offenses. Accumulating points can lead to further consequences, such as license suspension. This dual approach of imposing both a fine and points reinforces the critical role that seat belts play in protecting lives and reducing injuries on the road.