The seat belt law has been in effect for almost a year and Island motorists should now be consistently buckling up or be prepared to pay the price when the penalty phase of the law kicks in on January 1.

The Royal Gazette wanted to know if Bermudians would be paying fines after the New Year because they weren't buckled up but found that most people are ready.

Two people we spoke to said they weren't ready for the fines to come into effect, as they hadn't got used to wearing their seat belts yet.

“I'm not ready to use my seat belt. I use it sometimes but not all the time,” said Vincent Belboda.

Stanley Lee had similar feelings and said: “Well, I haven't been consistently wearing my seat belt but I will be when they start giving tickets. I have no problem with that.”

People have been practicing over the year, many citing their children as a reason to stick to the law.

“I buckle up every day. I'm from Canada and I had to wear a seat belt there and I didn't want to pay 76 bucks for a ticket. Plus, I have kids and I like to set a good example,” said Eddie Belfon.

Other drivers have been ready for years, buckling up consistently and making everyone else in the car do so as well.

“I'm a very strong supporter of wearing seat belts. I've worn mine for a year and a half now.

“I make my children and anyone who sits in the front, young or old, they have to wear a seat belt,” said Heather Brewer as she got in her car and clicked in her seat belt.

“Yes, I've been wearing my seat belt. I've got the car seat in the back, the booster in the back, everyone is practicing,” said Roxanne Pearman.

Children are even reminding their parents to wear their seat belts.

Anthony Alves said: “I've been ready and I've been wearing my seat belt for about six months now.

“First thing my kids say when they get in the car is let's buckle up.”

Mount Saint Agnes student Josh Bell said he's been buckling up along with the rest of his family.

Mark DeSilva was persuaded by his girlfriend. He said: “It doesn't bother me, my girlfriend got me used to it.”

Karen Campbell said: “I am wearing my seat belt, I'm not getting a ticket.”