ROAD safety organisation GEM Motoring Assist is urging drivers and passengers to wear a seat belt on every journey.

The advice follows the release of government data showing that not wearing a seat belt contributed to 30 per cent of road deaths in 2021 - a figure that increased to 47 per cent for journeys made at night.

The figures, issued by the Department for Transport, revealed that 34 per cent of men killed in road collisions were not wearing a seat belt, compared with 20 per cent of women.

People aged between 17 and 29 made up 40 per cent of the overall number.

GEM chief executive Neil Worth said: "Very few people set out from home in the car with the intention of having a collision. But in spite of the best efforts of vehicle manufacturers, highways engineers, road safety professionals and the emergency services, we are still seeing an average of five fatalities on the UK's roads every day. What's more, around 70 more people suffer serious injuries because of a road collision.

"It's shocking to learn that such a high percentage of vehicle occupants killed in road collisions were not wearing a seat belt, clearly demonstrating its value in protecting you in the event of a collision.

"Stay safe - and stay legal - by always wearing your seat belt. After all, wearing a seat belt reduces the risk of death by 45 per cent for drivers and front seat occupants, and reduces the risk of serious injury by 50 per cent."