I often give rides to acquaintances in my car, and not all passengers always fasten their seat belts, although the car is equipped with these devices. Can I, as the driver, be held liable if one of the passengers is not buckled up, and what could be the consequences? Is it mandatory to ensure everyone is buckled up, even if they are adults?
Answer provided 22.12.2025 13:58
According to paragraph 2.3 “v” of the Road Traffic Rules of Ukraine, the driver must be buckled up and does not have the right to transport unbuckled passengers. Exceptions are made only for persons with disabilities, as well as for drivers of special and operational transport. As for passengers, paragraph 5.2 “b” of the RTT stipulates that they are also obliged to use seat belts if the vehicle is equipped with them.According to part 5 of Article 121 of the Code of Ukraine on Administrative Offenses, violation of the requirements for the use of seat belts entails the imposition of a fine in the amount of thirty tax-free minimum incomes of citizens.Responsibility is borne by:The driver, if they allowed the passenger to remain unbuckled.The passenger themselves, if they refused to buckle up.
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