Seat belts save lives. In Arizona, using them isn’t just a smart choice—it’s also the law. Whether you’re driving through Phoenix or taking a quick trip around town, understanding the state’s seat belt rules helps keep you and your loved ones safer on the road.
What Are Arizona’s Seat Belt Laws?
Arizona law requires all front-seat occupants to wear seat belts. That includes both drivers and passengers. If you’re riding in the back seat and under the age of 16, you also must be buckled up. If you’re 16 or older and in the back, it’s not required by law—but it’s strongly encouraged for your safety.
Arizona is a secondary enforcement state for adults. That means law enforcement can only issue a seat belt citation if you’re pulled over for another reason, like speeding or running a red light.
Rules for Child Car Seats and Booster Seats
Kids must be protected with the right type of safety restraint for their age, height, and weight. Arizona has strict rules for child passengers:
- Under 5 years old: Must ride in a federally approved child safety seat.
- Ages 5 to 7 (and under 4 feet 9 inches): Must use a booster seat.
- Ages 8 and up: Can wear a regular seat belt if they meet height requirements.
Make sure car seats are installed properly and meet current safety standards. Improper use can increase the risk of injury in a crash.
What Are the Penalties for Not Wearing a Seat Belt?
Not wearing a seat belt can lead to fines and legal trouble. Here’s what you could face:
- $10 fine for each unbuckled front-seat passenger.
- $50 minimum fine for children under 5 not in a proper child safety seat.
Fines may seem small, but failing to buckle up could lead to worse consequences, especially if a crash causes injuries. It also puts you at greater financial risk for medical bills and possible legal claims.
Seat Belts Reduce Risk in a Crash
Wearing a seat belt is one of the easiest ways to lower your risk of serious injury or death. According to national safety data:
- Seat belts reduce the risk of fatal injury by 45% for front-seat passengers in cars.
- They lower the chance of serious injury by 50%.
Without a seat belt, you could be thrown from the vehicle or collide with the interior during a sudden stop. For kids, the risk of injury is much higher without the proper restraints.
What If You’re Hurt in a Crash Without a Seat Belt?
If you’re injured in a crash and weren’t wearing a seat belt, your case can become more complicated. You can still file a personal injury claim, but the other side may argue you were partly at fault for your injuries. Arizona follows a pure comparative fault system. That means your compensation may be reduced by the percentage of blame assigned to you.
Even if you made a mistake by not buckling up, you still have legal rights. A personal injury lawyer can help you understand your options and work to recover what you’re owed.
Spreading Awareness About Seat Belt Safety
Arizona’s Department of Transportation continues to promote seat belt use through public education campaigns. These efforts aim to keep the state’s high compliance rate—around 94%—from dropping. Many schools, medical groups, and community organizations also help teach kids and parents the importance of buckling up.
Need Help After a Crash in Phoenix?
Going through a car accident is overwhelming, especially when injuries are involved. Whether you were wearing a seat belt or not, you still may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, medical bills, and other losses.
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a crash, call CLS Law at (855) 257-9467. Our Phoenix personal injury lawyers are here to help you understand your rights and fight for fair results. We’ve recovered millions for Arizona’s injured, and we’re ready to help you too.