Lapbelts

Different types of seatbelts are available and they offer different levels of protection:

• Lap-belt - has two anchorages and a belt across the lap of the wearer - also known as a two-point safety belt.
• Lap-and-diagonal belt - has three anchorages, a belt across the lap of the wearer and a belt diagonally across their chest – also known as a three-point safety belt.

Lap-belts do not have the extra support of the diagonal belt. Follow these guidelines:

• Always wear a seatbelt: A seatbelt must be worn if there is one available, even if it is only a lap-belt.. A lap-belt offers less protection than a lap-and-diagonal seatbelt, but is still better than no seatbelt at all.
• Always adjust lap-belts to fit the wearer: Lap-belts must be fitted and worn correctly. Ensure that lap-belts are worn low across the bone of the pelvis and are tightened to fit the wearer.
• Use a suitable child restraint: Children under five years must be properly restrained in an approved child restraint and children aged five to seven years must use an appropriate child restraint if there is one available. Some child restraints are designed so that they can be used safely with lap-belts, and where this is the case, this is a safe option — check with the child restraint manufacturer.

For more information see Factsheet 30: Safety belts and airbags or Factsheet 7: Child restraints.

Last updated: 14 December 2007