Transport Minister Dr. Ewart Brown has urged the public to obey the new seatbelt law after spotting drivers who had not buckled up.

From January 1 all drivers and front street passengers were required to wear seat belts if their car has them, while child safety seats should be used in the front and rear seats for those under 14.

Dr. Brown said he was not surprised people were ignoring the new law.

He said: "I didn't expect buy-in right away. I urge people to buckle up before the penalty."

From next year those flouting the law will be fined. Dr. Brown said he hoped the penalty would be $100.