What is a common penalty for not wearing a seatbelt in most states?

The common penalty for not wearing a seatbelt in most states is fines or citations. Many states have enacted seatbelt laws to encourage the use of safety belts to reduce injuries and fatalities in the event of an accident. When a driver or passenger is pulled over for a traffic violation, law enforcement officers can issue a citation that results in a monetary fine if they observe that occupants are not wearing seatbelts. The amount of the fine can vary by state, but it serves as a financial deterrent to encourage compliance with seatbelt laws.

While community service, increased insurance premiums, and traffic school can occur for various violations or dangerous driving behaviors, they are not typically direct consequences for the specific offense of not wearing a seatbelt. The focus on fines is aimed at promoting safety through financial penalties, making it a prevalent approach in enforcement efforts concerning seatbelt usage.