The bill S. 854, introduced by Senator Massey, seeks to amend Section 56-5-6540 of the South Carolina Code of Laws concerning penalties for safety belt violations. The proposed amendment allows for safety belt violations to be admissible as evidence in civil actions if such violations are determined to be a proximate cause of the claimed damages. This change aims to clarify the legal standing of safety belt violations in civil litigation.

Additionally, the bill modifies the existing language in the law by removing the provision that states a violation of the safety belt law is not admissible as evidence in civil actions if it is a proximate cause of the claimed damages. This alteration signifies a shift in how safety belt violations can impact civil liability, potentially holding individuals accountable for damages resulting from their failure to wear a safety belt. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
01/28/2026: 56-5-6540
Latest Version: 56-5-6540