Bill > HB2906

This bill amends the Illinois Vehicle Code to clarify existing seat belt safety requirements. The legislation mandates that all drivers and passengers in motor vehicles must wear a properly adjusted and fastened seat safety belt when operating on streets or highways in Illinois. The bill includes specific provisions for children, requiring those under 8 years old to be protected according to the Child Passenger Protection Act and drivers transporting children between 8 and 16 years old to ensure they are securely belted. The law provides several exemptions to the seat belt requirement, including for drivers frequently stopping at low speeds (under 15 mph), those with medical certifications from physicians explaining an inability to wear a seat belt, drivers operating vehicles in reverse, older model vehicles (pre-1965), motorcycles, mopeds, and certain emergency vehicles. Importantly, the bill also indicates that failure to wear a seat belt can be considered evidence of negligence in legal proceedings and may potentially reduce damages awarded, though it does not limit insurance company liability. This legislation aims to enhance passenger safety and establish clear guidelines for seat belt usage across different driving scenarios.