UK adopts three‑point penalty for seatbelt offences under new road safety plan

The Labour‑led administration in Greater Manchester, headed by Mayor Andy Burnham, announced a new road‑safety strategy that will add three penalty points to licences for drivers caught breaking key rules, notably not wearing a seatbelt. Advanced roadside cameras will be deployed to detect seatbelt non‑use, and the measures aim to reduce deaths and serious injuries. The plan also proposes lowering the drink‑drive limit and introducing mandatory eyesight and cognitive tests for older motorists.

Separately, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) outlined how unpaid vehicle tax can trigger escalating fines, potentially reaching £2,500, and may lead to criminal prosecution. A recent case involved a pensioner who pleaded guilty to a £20 tax arrears, receiving compensation rather than a larger fine. Penalties start at £80, can rise to £1,000 or five times the tax owed, and may include vehicle clamping or loss of Direct Debit privileges. Over 150,000 untaxed vehicles were clamped in the UK in 2025, highlighting the broader enforcement push.