The Austin Police Department (APD) and Texas Department of Transportation (TXDOT) are joining forces to reinforce seat belt safety with an increased traffic enforcement effort running from May 19th through June 1st. With additional officers patrolling the roads, the focus is clear—ensuring drivers and passengers buckle up to stay safe.

Since its inception 22 years ago, the “Click It or Ticket” campaign has saved more than 7,800 lives, prevented 139,000 serious injuries, and saved Texas more than $40 billion in economic costs, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Wearing a seat belt is proven to reduce the risk of fatal injuries by 45% for front-seat passengers in cars and by 60% for those in pickups. More than just a precaution, seat belts work hand-in-hand with airbags to protect occupants during a crash. Without a seat belt, an airbag can become ineffective or even dangerous.

Texas law mandates that everyone in a vehicle must wear a seat belt or face fines and court costs of up to $200. Children under eight years old must be in a child safety seat or booster unless they are taller than four feet nine inches—failure to comply could result in fines of up to $250 for the driver.

APD and TXDOT urge all Texans to make buckling up a habit—day and night. This simple act could mean the difference between life and death.

For more information, visit the official Austin Police Department website.