LAREDO, Texas — The Laredo Police Department (LPD) has announced a two-week enforcement campaign aimed at cracking down on seat belt violations, starting May 19 through June 1.
The initiative is part of the Texas Department of Transportation’s (TxDOT) annual Click It or Ticket campaign and involves collaboration between LPD, TxDPS, and other local law enforcement agencies to boost seat belt use ahead of the Memorial Day weekend and summer travel season.
“This enforcement is a vital component of TxDOT’s annual Click It or Ticket safety campaign made possible through federally funded TxDOT traffic safety grants,” LPD stated.
Seat Belts Save Lives
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that seat belts reduce the risk of fatal injuries by 45% in car crashes and up to 60% in pickup trucks.
According to TxDOT crash data, 1,183 fatalities in Texas last year were linked to failure to wear seat belts.
State Law: Buckle Up or Pay Up
Texas law requires everyone in a vehicle to wear a seat belt. Violators face fines and court costs of up to $200, and if children aren’t properly restrained, the penalties can increase to $250.
Children under eight years old must be secured in a child safety seat or booster seat, unless they are taller than 4 feet, 9 inches, police noted.
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