Home > Cars > New Seat Belt Regulations > Seat Belt Use 

Never put the same seat belt around two children, or around yourself and another passenger (adult or child).

Do not allow your child to use the adult belt too early (see below).

Lap-and-diagonal belts provide more protection and should be used before lap-only belts.

Adjust the seat belt so that the lap belt is as low as possible across the hip bones - not over the stomach. Make sure the diagonal strap lies across the chest and away from the neck. It should slope up and back to the top fixing point and not be twisted. In many cars, you can adjust the height of the top fixing point to make this easier. Do not leave any slack in the belt.

Do not try to improve seat belt comfort with padding or cushions or sit on any mats or cushions. If you find your seat belt is really uncomfortable, ask the vehicle manufacturer if they have a recommended comfort device.

The centre rear seats of many cars are fitted with a lap-only seat belt that must be adjusted manually. It is important that you adjust such belts for a snug fit over your hips, without any slack.