Seat Belts Save Lives, Buckle Up, Montana

The Montana Highway Patrol’s Jeff Kent asked the

Northern Plains Independent

to share a public service announcement in anticipation of Memorial Day.

Kent says to expect increased patrols in Roosevelt County as part of a nationwide “Click It or Ticket” mobilization.

For many Montanans, Memorial Day weekend kicks off the start of summer travel, culminating with Labor Day weekend. Unfortunately, these summer months can also be some of the deadliest on Montana’s roads due to increased motor vehicle crashes. As part of a nationwide “Click It or Ticket” mobilization running from May 23 through June 5, 2022, Roosevelt County law enforcement agencies and the MHP will be out to educate motorists and enforce Montana’s seat belt law statewide.

Before you make plans to travel this Memorial Day weekend, commit to always buckle up before you go, and insist your friends and family do the same. Using your seat belt is your best defense against serious injury or death in the event you’re in a crash.

“There are no excuses for not wearing your seat belt,” said Sgt. Kent. “At the end of the day, we want all Montanans to make it to their destination safely, and the best way to increase your chances of surviving a crash is by wearing your seat belt. It’s simple: Seat belts help save lives.”

In recent years, Montana’s seat belt usage has improved. However, still almost half of the people killed in crashes each year were not wearing their seat belts. Remember to buckle up — every person, every trip, every time. There’s plenty of reasons to wear your seat belt, and no excuse not to buckle up.

For more information on vehicle occupant safety, including keeping children safe, visit mdt.mt.gov.