Are seat belts compulsory on the bus?

Kyrill Kretz
/ 4 minutes

In this article, you will find out when and for whom seat belts are compulsory on buses, which exceptions apply and what the consequences are if you do not fasten your seat belt. We also provide an overview of the different types of seat belts and explain why buckling up is not only a legal requirement, but also an important contribution to your own safety.

Kyrill Kretz
/ 4 minutes

When are seat belts compulsory on buses?

Whether on a long journey or a short bus ride, many passengers are unsure whether they need to wear a seatbelt on the bus. In principle, the answer is yes. However, this only applies under certain conditions. The decisive factor here is whether the bus is equipped with seat belts at all. Since October 01, coaches and long-distance buses must must be equipped with seat belts on all seats. seats. This regulation is based on §21 of the German Road Traffic Regulations (StVO)which stipulates that seat belts must be worn if they are available.

Seat belts are compulsory in all buses in which a seat belt is fitted. Buses that were built before the introduction of the obligation to fit all seats with seat belts are not required to be retrofitted.

As a rule, seat belts are not compulsory on local public transport buses. seat belts are not compulsory. This is because they are not equipped with seat belts and there are practical reasons for this. The buses are designed for frequent boarding and alighting and short journey times. Many passengers only make a few stops. In addition, city buses are built in such a way that they can also carry standing passengers safely. In particular, a seat with a seat belt for everyone would not be possible at peak times, as this not only slows down passenger movement, but also restricts flexibility in the interior.

Although the obligation to equip seats with seat belts has been introduced, there is no obligation to retrofitwhich is why it is not possible to buckle up in older buses. Children under the age of three are also exempt from the obligation to wear seat belts if no suitable restraint systems are available.

Our TÜV certificates

We are proud of our TÜV certifications in the areas of quality, environmental management and occupational safety. We are thus setting new standards in our industry.

What happens if I don't fasten my seatbelt?

Anyone who does not fasten their seat belt on a bus with seat belts is committing an administrative offense. According to §21 of the StVO a warning fine can be imposed, which currently amounts to 30 euros. The driver can also be fined if they do not point out the obligation to wear a seatbelt before the journey.

But much more important than the fine is the safety risk. In the event of an accident or emergency braking, unsecured passengers are not only a danger to themselves, but also to other passengers, e.g. if they are thrown uncontrollably through the vehicle. This applies in particular to coaches traveling at high speeds.   

If a traffic check is carried out during the journey, the authorities not only check the vehicle documents and fitness to drive, but also compliance with the seatbelt requirement. If passengers have not fastened their seat belts despite the obligation to do so, this can have consequences for passengers and drivers.

What type of belt is there?

There are two main types of belts used in coaches: the 2-point belt and the 3-point belt. The 2-point belt, also known as a lap belt, runs across the pelvis and is the standard in many coaches. It provides basic protection in the event of an accident or sudden braking and prevents passengers from sliding out of their seats or being thrown around the coach. The 3-point seat belt is similar to the seat belt in a car - it runs over the shoulders and pelvis and thus offers extended protection for the upper body and head. Modern buses, especially new coaches, are increasingly being fitted with 3-point belts.

In conclusion, the obligation to wear seat belts on buses is more than just a regulation - it is an important contribution to the safety of all passengers. Seat belts must be used as a matter of course, especially when traveling. Whether on a school trip, company event or shuttle serviceat agt, we place the highest value on safety, comfort and legally compliant equipment. We are available for inquiries and ensure a safe journey.

2-point harness
3-point harness
Fastening
Two fixing points
Three attachment points
Course
Over the lap
Over shoulder and lap
Protective effect
Only the pool is secured
Pelvis and upper body are secured
Security level
Higher risk of injury in the event of collisions
Significantly reduced risk of injury in the event of accidents
Use
Airplanes, older buses, rear seats
Cars (front & rear), modern buses
Comfort
Easy to create
Easy to put on, gives a greater sense of security

Our services

Experience our diverse performance portfolio and learn about our diverse product portfolio. 

Our customers

Trust us, just like these satisfied private individuals and companies. Together we have organized great events with buses and our other services.

Verified
customer reviews
via ProvenExpert

Verified
customer reviews
via ProvenExpert

Our bus world

In our agt Bus World, we provide information about current developments in our company, as well as the latest topics and events in the bus and mobility industry.

In our agt Bus World, we provide information about current developments in our company, as well as the latest topics and events in the bus and mobility industry.

Report misconduct

As soon as you become aware of incidents or business practices of AGT Bus- & Eventlogistik GmbH where you have doubts as to whether they are in accordance with the legal regulations, the Code of Conduct or other guidelines of AGT Bus- & Eventlogistik GmbH, you can report them now.

Not only the support of employees, but also the assistance of customers and business partners is of great importance. This is the only way to react immediately and avert or minimize damage. Ideally, the problem should be discussed directly and confidentially with a contact person at AGT Bus- & Eventlogistik GmbH. In this way, a solution can be found quickly and without detours.

However, there may be situations in which this direct route does not appear feasible. In such cases, a specialized legal ombudsman (lawyer of trust) has been set up as an internal and external reporting office at AGT Bus- & Eventlogistik GmbH. The information will be received confidentially. The reporting person can communicate openly with the ombudsman, stating their name and contact details. This makes it possible to ask questions about the facts of the case, which sometimes proves to be very helpful. If desired, however, the identity of the person making the report will not be disclosed.

If you do not wish to disclose your identity to the lawyer of confidence, you can submit information online and anonymously via the following whistleblower portal. Anonymous tips will also be investigated.

It is trusted that no information will be submitted with dishonest intent. False reports can have legal consequences. With the help of this reporting system, AGT Bus- & Eventlogistik GmbH ensures that every report is carefully checked and that the reporter does not suffer any disadvantages as a result.

The attorney of trust of AGT Bus- & Eventlogistik GmbH can be reached at the following contact details:

Compliance Officer Services Legal

Attorney Stephan Rheinwalt
Telemannstrafle 22
53173 Bonn
s.rheinwald@cos-legal.eu
Tel.: 0228/ 35036291
Mobile: 0171/7722906
Fax: 0228/ 35036292