Every motorist should know that wearing a seat belt is required, but not everyone does it. In New Jersey, all motor vehicle passengers must safely wear a seat belt, whether in the front or back seat. If a law enforcement officer stops a vehicle and sees drivers and passengers not wearing them, tickets may be issued to everyone inside.
Who Is Required to Wear a Seat Belt in New Jersey?
In New Jersey, all passenger vehicles are required to be equipped with seat belts. Passengers in the front and rear, ages 8 and up, and who are at least 57 inches tall must wear a seat belt. There are a few exceptions to this law.
What Are the Penalties for Not Wearing a Seat Belt in New Jersey?
The fine for not wearing a seat belt in the vehicle’s front row is $46 for a first offense. Since it is not a moving violation, no points are assessed or insurance premium increases. That is much less than the consequences for drivers not wearing seat belts while other offenses were committed. For example, the NJ Supreme Court ruled that unbuckled drivers who were not enforcing minor passengers to wear seat belts potentially face criminal charges.
How Can I Challenge a Seat Belt Ticket?
Working with a New Jersey traffic ticket lawyer might be your best option if you have other driving violations or the seat belt ticket has significant penalties. Representing yourself in court could backfire, especially if you do not understand court rules and NJ traffic laws.
A traffic ticket lawyer understands these regulations, has studied them thoroughly, and knows how to interpret them. This experience can make a difference in your defense.
Contact a New Jersey Traffic Ticket Lawyer at Ellis Law, P.C. for a Consultation About Your Seat Belt Ticket
If you need legal guidance with challenging any type of traffic ticket, speak with a skilled New Jersey traffic ticket lawyer at Ellis Law, P.C. For more information, complete our online form or call us at 732-702-6103 to schedule a free consultation. Located in Freehold, New Jersey, we proudly assist clients in Asbury Park, East Brunswick, Toms River, Middletown, Jersey City, Long Branch, Neptune, Hudson County, Union County, Essex County, Monmouth County, Marlboro, and Ocean County, as well as Brooklyn and New York City.
