Seat belt effort results in more than
1,200 citations issued and
safety message reinforced

In just two weeks early in August, approximately 1,265 citations were issued for seat belt violations during a statewide seat belt mobilization effort. 

This particular mobilization usually runs in May, but given the downturn in traffic counts this spring due to COVID-19, the Office of Highway Safety ran the awareness campaign later in the summer as more cars returned to the roads. 

“Our traffic counts are showing more and more drivers out-and-about since a dramatic decrease in March,” said Highway Safety Manager John Tomlinson. “Also this year, many Idahoans are staying closer to home. This means many drivers are traveling on rural stretches to get to their destination, and the statistics show that fewer people wear seat belts on rural roads.” 

In 2019, 68% of crashes happened in Idaho’s urban areas, and 74% of crash fatalities occurred on rural roads.
  
“No matter where you drive, or how far, the most effective way to stay protected in a crash still remains buckling up,” said Tomlinson.
  
In Idaho, the seat belt use rate is 85%. The mobilization efforts exist for the remaining 15% who still don’t buckle up.
 
“Most people are doing the right thing and wearing their seat belts,” added Tomlinson. “This campaign allows officers to educate and engage with those who are not properly restrained. The ultimate goal of these efforts is saving lives through seat belt use.” 

 

Published 09-04-20