Wearing a seat belt is compulsory for all drivers and passengers, at the risk of receiving a fine of 135 euros. But some people are exempt.
Wearing a seat belt is mandatory when driving, whether the driver or passengers seated in the front or rear of the vehicle. And for good reason, in the event of a shock or accident, it helps save lives. However, almost 30% of drivers admit to not always wearing their seat belts, especially for short journeys or in town. Road safety reminds that 75% of fatal accidents occur close to home. In addition, in the event of non-compliance with this obligation, the driver risks a fixed fine of 135 euros, which can rise to 750 euros in certain cases. And that’s not all: three points can also be removed from the driving license.
But certain professions are exempt from wearing a seat belt. Thus, those who exercise one of these professions cannot be penalized during a police check, and no action is necessary to be exempted. According to the Public Service website, taxi drivers on duty, drivers or passengers of a priority general interest vehicle or an ambulance, in emergency response; any driver or passenger of a public service vehicle forced by service necessity to stop frequently in built-up areas; those making door-to-door deliveries in urban areas are exempt from wearing a seat belt.
Remember that in two situations, for medical reasons, the belt cannot be imposed either. This is particularly the case if the body type is not suitable for wearing a seat belt, or if the person is in possession of a medical certificate of exemption, issued by an approved doctor, which must mention the period of validity. In the event of an inspection, this document may be presented to the police.
Finally, on a completely different note, people driving a classic car or an old vehicle are also not concerned if the vehicle in question does not have an original seat belt.
