Seat-Belt Laws in New York

New York seat-belt laws require the driver and all passengers to wear seat-belts, regardless of their age or their position in the car.
Written by Michelle Ballestrasse
Reviewed by Kathleen Flear
background
New York
requires the driver and all passengers to wear seat belts. Drivers are responsible for any passengers under the age of 16, whereas passengers over the age of 16 are responsible for themselves.
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What are the seat belt laws in New York?

In New York, the driver and all passengers must wear seat belts, regardless of their age or position in the car.
Drivers are accountable for any passengers under the age of 16 who violate this law, while passengers over the age of 16 are accountable for themselves.
Key Takeaway Drivers are responsible for passengers under the age of 16.

What happens if you break the seat belt laws in New York?

Drivers who are found to have passengers younger than the age of 16 in their car who are not wearing seat-belts will be fined between $25 to $100 and will receive three points on their driving record.
Passengers over the age of 16 who violate the law will be fined up to $50.

Could it impact my driving record?

Yes. Both the
citation
and the three points assessed against your license will have a negative impact on your
New York driving record
. Accumulating a certain number of points can have dire consequences, including suspension of your license.

Could it impact my insurance?

Possibly. Insurance carriers use your driving record to assess what is known as your risk level. High-risk drivers ultimately pay more for their insurance than those who are low-risk.
Having points and citations on your record signals to insurance carriers that you are a
high-risk driver
. Your rates may go up as a result.
Key Takeaway Having citations and points on your driving record will, in all likelihood, increase your insurance rates.
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