A fail-safe breakaway belt is provided for installation onto a single occupant transporter having a seat portion laterally bounded by arm rests, an electrical system that drives the transporter, and a joystick associated with one arm rest for controlling the electrical system. The belt includes two oppositely disposed elongated members, each having a proximal extremity secured to the transporter below an arm rest, and extending to a distal extremity. Electrical conductor wires in series connection with the electrical system are incorporated into the elongated members. When the distal extremities are separated, the transporter is rendered inoperable. When the distal extremities are connected across the lap of the occupant, full functionality is restored to the transporter.