File photo of a Lethbridge Police vehicle (Lethbridge News Now)

By Justin Goulet

LPS sending reminder to drivers and passengers on seat belt/child restraint laws

Mar 15, 2021 | 10:49 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Police in Lethbridge are reminding drivers and passengers about the laws on seat belts and child restraints.

“If there’s a need for anyone to unfasten their seat belt to attend to a child or some other need in the vehicle once on the road, please find a safe place to pull over and stop first,” reads a release from the LPS.

“That momentary lapse in caution could impact everyone’s life negatively, should the vehicle leave the road or otherwise be involved in a collision.”

Lethbridge Police stated that when it comes to seat belts:

• Drivers and passengers must wear an occupant restraint;
• It is the driver’s responsibility to ensure children aged six to 15 (or children younger than six who weigh more than 18 kg/40 lbs) are wearing a seat belt;
• Seat belts must be worn properly adjusted and securely fastened. Seat belts must not be removed from the vehicle or modified;
• Learner and probationary (e.g. GDL) drivers must not have more passengers than there are seat belts;
• Occupant restraints must meet Canadian standards.

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When it comes to child restraints:

• It is the driver’s responsibility to ensure children younger than six who weigh 18 kg (40 lbs) or less are in a properly installed child restraint.

LPS noted there are some exemptions. Seat belts and child restraints are not required (but are still recommended) to be used:

• In vehicles not designed or equipped with seat belt assemblies by their manufacturers;
• In vehicles being used in the course of making deliveries and being driven at 40 km/h or less;
• In vehicles being driven in an authorized municipal parade;
• By a person who has a letter from a qualified medical practitioner certifying that person cannot use a seat belt or child restraint due to medical reasons or physical characteristics.

Child restraints are not required (but are still recommended) in:

• Taxis;
• Emergency vehicles;
• Vehicles rented/leased for 14 days or shorter.

Penalties include a $155 fine. GDL drivers will also receive two demerit points if they drive with more passengers than there are seat belts.