Every vehicle under a TARE weight of 3,000 kg has to have front seat belts fitted (for the driver and front seat passenger/s) as an INTEGRAL (not OPTIONAL) part of the vehicle, before it can be licensed.  That includes private cars, T-registered vehicles and vehicles used to transport the public (taxis).  These belts need to be able to restrain both the upper and lower body  (shoulder and lap belts) except if there are 3 seats in the front (bench seats). In this case the middle seat can have just a lap belt.

The registered owner is the one at fault if this is contravened, and the penalties are:

• for a first offence – a fine of TT$1,000 and
• on any subsequent conviction – a fine of TT$2,000

Any person occupying a front seat in any motor vehicle subject to the seatbelt regulation shall wear a seat belt while the motor vehicle is in motion.

• A fine of TT$1,000 is the penalty for breaking this law. If the guilty person is sixteen years of age or more, they must pay the fine. If the person is more than two years of age and less than sixteen, the driver is responsible.

BUT

• A person shall not be convicted under this section if he proves that at the material time he held a valid certificate signed by a legally qualified medical practitioner to the effect that it is inadvisable on medical grounds for him to wear a seat belt.

Children under the age of five (5) must be buckled into a child seat or a booster seat in the back seat of the vehicle.  The appropriate seat depends on the height, and weight of the child.  It is important to note that child seats just like tyres have expiry dates.  To protect your child, do ensure you check to make sure you purchase an appropriate seat.  Read the instructions for installing carefully since your child will be best protected.  Children are best protected in the rear of a vehicle even over 5 years of age, since in the event of a serious collision, the impact (including that from airbags) could cause serious damage to a small frame.

Disclaimer

The materials available at this web site are for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing legal advice. You should contact your attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem.