You Could Soon Get Pulled Over For Not Wearing a Seat Belt in Massachusetts

Click it or ticket!

Seat belt laws vary from state to state, but thanks to new proposed legislation from Governor Baker, the law in Massachusetts could get a bit stricter.

Currently, law enforcement can fine you for not wearing a seat belt while traveling out on the road, but only if you were pulled over for a different reason. In other words, you can't be pulled over solely because you aren't wearing a seatbelt. However, that could change in the near future.

The Baker-Polito Administration filed new legislation on Monday to improve road safety across Massachusetts. Among the proposed changes is a piece of legislation that, if passed, would allow "law enforcement to stop motorists for not wearing a seatbelt."

"Seat belt use is a proven lifesaver," Secretary of Transportation Jamey Tesler said. "Massachusetts lags the nation in this most simple action. We need to be better, and primary enforcement is an effective tool in that effort."

The proposed road safety guidelines also include new legislation regarding traffic cameras, safe bicycle passing, CDL laws and Haley's Law, which would increase penalties for drivers who injure others while driving with a suspended license.

"These proposals will make Massachusetts roadways and streets safer for all travelers and will help reduce roadway fatalities across the state," Governor Baker said. "This legislative package builds upon laws enacted in 2019 to prevent and enforce distracted driving, and we look forward to working with our partners in the Legislature to take additional steps to improve road safety."