What is Ohio’s seat belt law?

Ohio’s seat belt law mandates that all drivers and passengers in a vehicle must wear seat belts while the vehicle is in operation. This law is designed to promote safety for everyone within the vehicle, recognizing that seat belts significantly reduce the risk of injury or death in the event of a crash. By requiring that all occupants are buckled up, the law aims to ensure the highest level of protection possible, because unrestrained passengers can not only endanger themselves but also other passengers in the vehicle and other road users.

This comprehensive requirement emphasizes the importance of safety, rather than limiting the rule to just front seat passengers or making seat belts optional for adults. Additionally, while there are specific child restraint laws in Ohio, the law's overarching requirement for all occupants reinforces the necessity of safety measures for every individual in the vehicle, regardless of age or seating position.