Police officers across Europe are conducting seatbelt checks until September 13.

Vehicle occupants caught without their seatbelts will be issued with a penalty.

The action is part of a Europe-wide operation co-ordinated by TISPOL, the European Traffic Police Network, which began yesterday (September 7).

Aidan Reid, president of TISPOL, said:  “Using a seatbelt is a quick and simple task: it’s also a highly effective way of reducing the consequences of a collision.

“That’s why wearing a seatbelt is not a matter of personal choice, but is compulsory for drivers and passengers in every European country.

“Yet there are still drivers and passengers who for whatever reason do not use a seatbelt.

"We urge drivers to take responsibility for their own safety and for the safety of their passengers, by ensuring everyone wears a seatbelt on every road journey.”

Reid added: “After all, the use of seatbelts is the single most effective method of reducing fatalities and serious injuries in motor vehicle collisions.”