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Decatur Police stepping up seatbelt patrols for Memorial Day weekend

May 22, 2023 | 11:16 AM

May 22, 2023 – The Decatur Police Department announced it is stepping up enforcement for the Memorial Day “Click It or Ticket” campaign that will run from May 19th through May 30th, reminding motorists to buckle up for safety.

“Seat belts have proven to be life-saving in the event of a crash,” said Sgt. Steve Hagemeyer. “Unfortunately, many still don’t buckle up. Worse yet, not wearing a seat belt is a habit that can be passed on to younger generations who follow the example set by their elders.”

Wearing a seat belt can reduce the risk of fatal injury by 45%. Seat belts save lives every day, but they’re
only effective if they’re used. While Illinois currently has a 93% seat belt use compliance rate, unbelted occupants still account for more than half of those killed in motor vehicle crashes.

The “Click It or Ticket” campaign is administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation with federal highway safety funds.