BISMARCK, N.D. (KFGO) – In an effort to save lives and reduce traffic injuries, law enforcement agencies across North Dakota will increase patrols from May 1 through June 2 as part of the Click It or Ticket campaign, focusing on enforcing North Dakota’s seat belt law.
Seat belts are the most effective safety device to prevent death and injury in a traffic crash. Unbelted fatal crashes in North Dakota occur most often on rural roads and during weekend nights according to the state’s most recent data. Male drivers made up 79% of the unbelted traffic deaths over the past five years.
North Dakota’s seat belt law is a primary enforcement law, meaning drivers can be stopped and cited solely for not wearing a seat belt. The law mandates that all occupants, regardless of seating position, must be buckled up or in the appropriate child restraint.
“Enforcement helps raise awareness, but real change comes when buckling up becomes automatic,” said Wahpeton Police Chief Matthew Anderson.
Seat belts are proven to significantly reduce the risk of serious injury or death in a crash. Data shows that belted occupants are more likely to escape crashes with minor or no injuries, while those unbelted face a much higher risk.
The campaign is part of the Vision Zero strategy to eliminate fatalities and serious injuries on North Dakota roadways.
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