Statewide campaign reminds motorists to wear their seatbelts: ‘Use it all the time’

AUSTINTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) — Ohio’s law enforcement is reminding you to wear your seatbelt — it could mean the difference between life and death.

You’re always told to wear your seatbelt . In Ohio, 82% of adults say they do, but in Mahoning County, that number’s a little lower.

“Here, in Mahoning County, we’re about 72%. So, there’s some work we can do, from an enforcement standpoint,” said Lt. Eric Brown, with the Canfield post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol.

That’s why Ohio has its Click It or Ticket Campaign, running from May 13 through June 2. They want to educate.

“It’s no secret that seatbelts do save lives. So we encourage everyone to use it, all the time. It should be the first thing you do when you get in a motor vehicle,” said Capt. Jason Simon, with the Youngstown Police Department.

Law enforcement isn’t just saying this because it’s the law — they have seen the difference firsthand.

“A lot of times, the people don’t wear seatbelts, don’t see what the law enforcement officers that are here today, see on a daily basis. The aftermath of not wearing a seatbelt,” Brown said.

“Had someone had their seatbelt on, they would be alive, maybe talking to us today,” Simon said.

Right now, not wearing a seatbelt is a secondary violation.

“The officer has to observe some sort violation, like speeding, driving out of your lane or something of that nature and then notices you’re not wearing your seatbelt,” Brown said.

But, earlier this month, Ohio State Rep. Jon Cross announced a bill to change that, making it a primary violation.

“Which means you could be stopped if an officer observes you not wearing a seatbelt,” Brown said.

The legislation is still waiting on a bill number and which committee it will go to in the House.

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