The New London Police Department handed out exactly 100 citations during its participation in the "Click It or Ticket" campaign.
Deputy Chief Peter Reichard said officers issued 99 citations for seat belt violations and one citation for a child restraint violation during the enforcement effort, which ran from Dec. 3 to 16. The Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration promotes the campaign to increase awareness of seat belt laws through a period of stepped-up enforcement.
The administration says seat belt usage has increased from 58 percent in 1994 to 84 percent in 2011. It also credits seat belts with preventing serious injury and saving lives, estimating that 12,546 drivers and passengers avoided death in 2010 by wearing seat belts.
“Both during day and also at night, our stepped-up enforcement showed New London how important it really is to always buckle up on our roadways," said Reichard. “The annual Click It or Ticket mobilization may be over, but that is no excuse to stop using your seat belt. Don’t forget to buckle up and please encourage those around you to always do the same.”
Just like motorcycle helmets, it should be my choice. I am insured and if an accident should result in my incapacitation, I am covered. Yeah my family and friends would (hopefully) be bummed its my choice to make. And don't give me that ridiculous if we save just one life crap. How is natural selection supposed to run its course when we interfere with trivial seat belt laws? If you want to wear them fine, leave me and your over zealous regulation alone.
I would also add that seat belts help to hold you in position behind the wheel and maintain control of your vehicle should it start to slide on ice. Without the restraint, you can begin to slide to the side and no longer have control to keep others on the road and in your vehicle safe.