Police agencies in Texas have started increased seatbelt enforcement as part of the "Click it or Ticket" campaign. Click it or Ticket was first launched in 2002.
"Seatbelts make a difference," said the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Becky Walker. "That's why it's so important to keep reminding drivers and their passengers their safety depends on being buckled up."
TxDOT says 1,226 people died on Texas roads last year who were not wearing a seatbelt. The agency says seatbelts reduce the risk of death in a car crash by 45% in sedans and 60% in pickup trucks.
TxDOT also says about ten percent of drivers in the state do not wear a seat belt. Since the "Click it or Ticket" campaign was first launched in 2002, NHTSA says seatbelts have saved 6,972 lives and prevented 120,000 injuries in Texas.
"If it takes writing you a seatbelt ticket to get your attention and encourage you to always wear your seatbelt, we will do it," said Fort Worth Police Assistant Chief Joe Sparrow. "By giving you that citation, it is our hope you'll be motivated to buckle up and protect yourself from possible life-threatening injuries or death."
Sparrow says officers do not seek out people to punish them for not wearing seatbelts. He says police departments in North Texas responded to 800 crashes last year where someone not wearing a seatbelt died or was seriously hurt.
"We care about your life," Sparrow said. "Law enforcement officers are committed to keeping the public safe."
This year, NHTSA says police will focus the initiative more during the evening and overnight hours, saying that is when people are least likely to wear seatbelts. Walker says Click or Ticket will run through June 5.
"This two-week period also includes Memorial Day and the kick-off of the summer vacation season, which, unfortunately, is one of the most dangerous times of the year to be on the road," Walker said.
TxDOT says fines range up to $200; fines for kids who are not property restrained in a child safety seat or booster seat can cost up to $250.
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