Under Indiana law, all drivers and passengers aged 16 and above must wear a seatbelt while the vehicle is in motion. This is known as a standard or primary law on seat belts, meaning that you can be arrested and fined for not wearing one. It is important to have your seat belt properly fastened around the occupant's body at all times when the vehicle is moving forward.The state has regulations on seat belts and child restraint systems depending on the age and size of the child. The Indiana Code states that “every occupant of a motor vehicle equipped with a seat belt that (complies) with the standards set forth in federal motor vehicle safety standard number 208 (49 CFR 571.20); and (is standard equipment installed by the manufacturer); must have a seat belt properly fastened around the occupant's body at all times when the vehicle is moving forward.”Failure to use a seat belt cannot be used to establish negligence or partial fault in car accident cases in Indiana.
However, wearing a seatbelt is not only a safety measure, it is also a matter of law. Lee Cossell & Feagley, LLP, located in Indianapolis, IN serves clients in and around Indianapolis, Beech Grove, West Newton, Camby, Plainfield, New Palestine, Mc Cordsville, Brownsburg, Pittsboro, Fishers, Zionsville, Amo, Needham, Avon, Clayton, Fairland, Cartersburg, Whiteland, Boggstown, Brooklyn, Greenwood, Danville, Gersville, Whitestown, Greenfield Hancock County, Hendricks County, Johnson County, Marion County, Morgan County and Shelby County.The state also has the Buckle Up Bug program which encourages third-grade children to “harass” their family members to comply with Indiana seatbelt laws. Adults or children who have a medical certificate issued by a doctor stating that it would not be practical to hold them because of a physical or mental condition are exempt from Indiana seat belt laws.In Indiana breaking your seat belt is a major crime which means that law enforcement can stop you only to determine if you are wearing a seat belt. There are some exceptions to Indiana's seatbelt laws but in general all occupants of the vehicle must wear a seatbelt.It is essential for all drivers and passengers in Indianapolis and throughout Indiana to understand the state's laws regarding seat belts.
Not only is it important for safety reasons but also because it is required by law. Wearing a seatbelt can help protect you from serious injury or death in the event of an accident. It is important to make sure that everyone in your vehicle is properly buckled up before you start driving.
