Louisiana Authorities Push Seatbelt Safety

Between now and June 2, officers from 132 agencies will participate in the state’s largest-ever concentrated effort to increase the use of seatbelts.

This year’s “Click It or Ticket” campaign includes stepped-up enforcement, broadcast advertising and public education in an effort to raise awareness of Louisiana’s seatbelt laws. Last year, officers issued 20,597 seatbelt citations during the increased enforcement period.

Lt. Col. John LeBlanc, executive director of the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission, says wearing a seatbelt, regardless of where seated, greatly increases the chance of survival or avoiding serious injuries in a crash.

According to a 2012 survey, a record high 79 percent of drivers and front-seat passengers were using seat belts. Transportation officials say 61 percent of people killed in crashes in Louisiana in 2011 were not buckled up.