Can Texas police pull you over for not wearing your seat belt? Here’s what the law says
Many drivers have heard the catchphrase “click it or ticket,” but can police actually pull someone over for not wearing a seat belt?
Believe it not, Texas didn’t make it mandatory for passengers to wear seat belts in front seats of vehicles until 1985. In 2009, Texas passed another law making it mandatory for all passengers in both front and back seats to wear a seat belt, according to the Austin American Statesman.
When it comes to seat belt laws in Texas, the state is strict about safety. Here’s what we know:
Can Texas police pull you over for not wearing a seat belt?
Texas police can’t pull drivers over for anything, they must have a reason to stop you.
A majority of the time when drivers are stopped its for violating a traffic law, according to the Law Office of Walter M. Reaves Jr. Whether it be speeding or a break light out, Texas police can pull you over for anything traffic-related if deemed illegal by them or if they find it wrong.
Since wearing a set belt in Texas is law, police can pull you over for the violation.
What are the seat belt laws in Texas?
Under Texas Transportation Code section 545.413, a person commits a seat belt-related offense if they are:
- At least 15 years of age and riding in a vehicle without wearing a seat belt
- A school bus driver, who’s not wearing a seat belt
The offense for those at least 15 years of age and older is a misdemeanor punishable with a fine between $25-$50. While a school bus driver infraction, also a misdemeanor is punishable with a fine in the $100-$200 range.
Additionally, a person commits an offense if they’re transporting a child who is younger than eight years of age and under four feet nine inches, not in a child safety or booster seat. This misdemeanor offense comes with a fine of between $25-$250.
Are there exceptions to any of the Texas seat belt laws?
Yes, there a few exceptions for certain people when it comes to seat belts in Texas.
Texas Transportation Code section 545.413 lists the few seat belt exceptions for:
- People who have a written statement from a licensed physician stating a medical reason as to why they shouldn’t wear a seat belt.
- United States Postal Service workers.
- Newspaper delivery workers.
- Public or private utility company meter readers.
- Registered farm vehicles that weigh under 48,000 pounds.
- Waste and garbage collection workers.
