Who is responsible for ensuring that a 15-year-old is wearing a seatbelt in a vehicle?

The responsibility for ensuring that a 15-year-old is wearing a seatbelt in a vehicle primarily falls on the driver. This is because the driver has the immediate control over the vehicle and is tasked with the safety of all occupants, including enforcing seatbelt use. In many jurisdictions, it is a legal requirement for the driver to ensure that passengers, particularly those who are minors, are properly restrained.

While parents may have an obligation to teach their children about seatbelt use, and law enforcement may take action if they observe a violation, the practical responsibility during a vehicle operation rests with the driver at that moment. Therefore, the driver is expected to be vigilant not only in driving safely but also in ensuring that everyone in the vehicle is compliant with safety regulations, including the use of seatbelts.