More drivers caught for flouting child seat belt rules

More drivers have been caught by the Traffic Police for not putting on seat belts or appropriate restraints for children travelling in vehicles.

The number has doubled in the first half of this year, compared to the same period last year.

This follows changes to seat belt rules in the beginning of the year.

Since January, anyone below the height of 1.35 metres needs to be properly secured - either with seat belts, child restraints or booster seat cushions - when travelling in a car.

Previously, the seat belt rule applies to children aged eight and below.

Police say in the first half of the year, 490 drivers were caught for failing to belt up their young passengers, compared to 220 in the same period last year.

Police stressed the importance of drivers taking responsibility for their own safety and the safety of their young passengers.

Those who flout the seat-belt rules will be fined $120, and given three demerit points.