Not only do teens have a lower seatbelt use rate than adults they also have the tendency to improperly wear the restraints.  It is still a violation of law if the seatbelt is improperly worn (e.g. under the arm instead of over the shoulder).  Teens that typically wear their belts when either driving themselves or riding as a passenger with their parents also have the tendency to not wear their seatbelts with the same frequency when riding with friends.

We know that teens are at a high risk of crashing, especially the first year.  Because of this making sure every occupant in the vehicle is buckled up is vitally important.  Remind your teens (both drivers and those who ride as passengers) that it is very easy for an officer to spot someone who is not wearing a seatbelt.  And yes, they can pull them over (and adults for that matter) just for not wearing a seatbelt. 

Seatbelt Laws

The basic seatbelt law (CVC 27315) requires driver and all passengers 16 years of age or older to wear a seatbelt.  Both the driver and passengers can be cited.  Drivers can also be cited for a passenger not wearing a seatbelt even if the driver is wearing one.  This violation is an infraction with the fine starting at about $65 can increase with subsequent violations.

There is a special case with there is an unbelted passenger under the age of 15 (CVC 27360.5).  This applies even if the driver is only 16 years old.  A violation of this section results in a fine of over $300 and counts a one point on the driver's DMV record.

One of the best ways that parents can encourage their teens (and all aged children for that matter) is by making sure that they always wear seatbelts themselves.  Indications are seatbelt use rates are higher in teens when their parents are habitual restraint users.

Improper Position

Another problem more common with teens is riding in an improper seat position.  Some teens recline their seats while operating the vehicle in spite of the vehicle owner's manual requirement that the seat are placed in an upright position while the vehicle is in motion. 

When the seat is reclined the occupant can "submarine" under the belt, causing severe injury.  Teens sometime ride two-to-a-belt, another dangerous act that can result in serious internal injuries.  With more vehicles being equipped with side-impact air bags riding in the proper position is becoming even more important.