Whether you’re a seasoned motorhome owner or just about to embark on your first adventure on the open road, it’s essential to be familiar with seatbelt laws. We’ve put together a guide that will help you stay legal and safe during your travels.
The rules around this vary according to when your motorhome was made.
If your motorhome was built after 2006
Identify the designated travel seats – each of these must have a seatbelt, and passengers must wear the seatbelt while the vehicle is moving. Driver and specified passenger seats must have a three-point belt, and all other seats must have a two-point belt.
If your motorhome dates from 1st October 1988
The driver and specified passenger must have a three-point seatbelt. All other forward facing passengers must have a two or three-point seatbelt, which must be worn while the vehicle is in transit.
If your motorhome was built prior to 1st October 1988
The driver and designated passenger must have and wear a seatbelt. Rear passenger seats are not legally obliged to be fitted with seatbelts.
Side facing seats
While these are not illegal, side facing seats are not recommended. If your vehicle has this type of seat, it is worth noting that EU research shows a seatbelt may increase the risk of injury in the event of a frontal collision.
Children’s seatbelts
All child seats must be used in conjunction with a three-point seatbelt. Children are obliged to use a child seat until they are four foot four, or they reach twelve years old. Always read any additional instructions that come with your child seat and be sure to follow them with care.
There are a few circumstances where wearing a seatbelt may be more dangerous than not. These exemptions are as follows:
When you are reversing the vehicle
When you are driving a motorhome in relation to an emergency
If you have a GP certified medical reason for exemption
Under current safety legislation motorhome seatbelts have been designed to keep you and your passengers safe
As the driver of the motorhome, you have the responsibility to ensure the safety of all passengers
Side facing seats are more dangerous with a seatbelt than without
Any significant modifications to the number of seats in your vehicle could be reported to the DVLA
If you’re not sure whether your motorhome seats and seatbelts meet current safety regulations, refer to the National Caravan Council. The NCC is a trade association that supports International Organisation for Standardisation regulations and provides a directory of approved companies.
To fine-tune your knowledge of the laws affecting motorhome drivers, you may like to take a course from The Caravan and Motorhome Club.
As regulations change, more information can be found on the government Department of Transport website.
