Bill > HB3388

This bill repeals and reenacts Section 307.178 of the Missouri Revised Statutes (RSMo) to allow for primary enforcement of the seat belt law, meaning law enforcement officers can stop a vehicle solely for a seat belt violation. The bill clarifies that "passenger car" refers to vehicles designed for ten or fewer people, excluding motorcycles, motorized bicycles, motor tricycles, and trucks with a gross weight of 12,000 pounds or more. It mandates that drivers and front-seat passengers in passenger cars manufactured after January 1, 1968, and individuals under 18 in trucks, must wear properly fastened seat belts, with exceptions for U.S. Postal Service employees performing specific duties, those with medical reasons, and those engaged in agricultural work. The bill also specifies that failure to wear a seat belt cannot be used as evidence of comparative negligence in damage claims, though it may be admitted to mitigate damages by up to one percent if expert evidence proves it contributed to the injuries. However, this mitigation provision does not apply to actions concerning the design, construction, manufacture, distribution, or sale of a motor vehicle factory-equipped with a seat belt. Violations are classified as infractions with a fine not exceeding ten dollars, without court costs or points assessed against a driver's license. The State Highways and Transportation Commission is tasked with developing a public information program to promote understanding and compliance with the law. Finally, the bill addresses situations where there are more passengers than seat belts, requiring those without a belt to sit behind the front seat unless the vehicle is designed only for front seating.