Michigan police are increasing seat belt enforcement starting May 20

LANSING, Mich. – Police departments across Michigan will be looking for drivers who are not wearing their seat belts starting next week.

The Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning (OHSP) “Click It Or Ticket” campaign begins Monday, May 20 and runs through Sunday, June 2.

During these two weeks, Michigan State Police (MSP), along with city and county law enforcement agencies, will increase seat belt enforcement for motorists in Michigan.

According to the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute, 244 people who died in car accidents in 2022 were not wearing a seatbelt.

The Click It Or Ticket campaign runs through Memorial Day Weekend, when 21 people died in accidents in 2022 alone.

“The enforcement deadline is designed to save lives by reminding drivers and all vehicle occupants that buckling up is the most effective way to stay safe on our roads,” said Katie Bower, OHSP Director. “With the arrival of warmer weather, the number of people traveling to meet up with family and friends is increasing. We would like to encourage drivers and passengers to buckle up so that everyone gets to their destination safely.”

In Michigan, everyone 15 years old or younger must wear a seatbelt at all times. People aged 16 and over only need to wear a seat belt in the front seats of the car. The fine for not wearing a seat belt is $65.

It is also required that anyone 8 years old or younger and anyone under 5 feet 4 inches tall ride in a child safety seat or car seat.

According to OHSP, seat belt use fell from 94.4% in 2022 to 92.4% in 2023.

“The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that wearing a seatbelt in the front seat can reduce the risk of serious injury or death in a crash by 45 percent,” OHSP wrote in a news release.

Find out more about the Click It Or Ticket campaign here.

►Make it easy to stay up to date with more stories like this. Download the 13 ON YOUR SIDE app now.

Do you have a news tip? E-mail [email protected]visit our Facebook site or Twitter. Subscribe to our Youtube channel.

Watch 13 ON YOUR SIDE for free Roku, Amazon Fire TV StickApple TV and on your phone.