Alabama Seat Belt Law

In most states, not wearing your seat belt while driving is against the law.

In an attempt to reduce injuries and fatalities caused in traffic accidents, Alabama has passed a law requiring the use of safety belts while driving. Knowing what the law requires can save you from an expensive ticket.

Primary Law

Alabama's seat belt law is what is known as a primary law, which means a police officer can pull you over for a seat belt violation without observing any other traffic infraction. In secondary law states, you cannot be pulled over if simply not wearing a seat belt is the only infraction an officer observes.

Requirements

In Alabama, anyone age six or older in a front seat must be wearing a seat belt when the car is in motion. Children younger than six must be in approved child safety seats or booster seats.

Safety Note

While the law does not specify a preference, child safety seats should not be used in front seats equipped with airbags, to prevent injury.

Fines

For a first offense, the fine for not wearing a seat belt is $25. Further violations can incur more fines as well as points on your license.

Checkpoints

At various times during the year, the state patrol and police departments participate in the Click It or Ticket campaign, in which they set up checkpoints to observe whether drivers are wearing safety belts. Officers issue citations to drivers whose passengers aren't wearing seat belts.

References

• Alabama State Legislature: Alabama Safety Belt Use Act of 1991
• Insurance Institute for Highway Safety: Child Restraint Laws