Valdosta, GA- In advance of the Memorial Day holiday, law enforcement agencies from coast to coast are taking part in the ‘Click It Or Ticket’ campaign.

Wearing a seatbelt is the most effective way to help prevent injuries in the event of a traffic crash. Unfortunately, many motorists do not use this important safety feature. Beginning today, Florida Highway Patrol and Georgia State Patrol Troopers will be taking part in the 2013 National Click It or Ticket seat belt enforcement campaign.  Motorists who are not buckled up run the risk of being ticketed. This includes any passengers who may be riding in the car.

“The Patrol is committed to making the roadways safer through the use of education and enforcement campaigns such as Click it or Ticket,” said Col. David Brierton, director of the Florida Highway Patrol. “Seat belts have saved thousands of lives and are one of the most effective safety tools in your vehicle.”

Three things to remember when it comes to seatbelts:
• Buckle up every time you get in your vehicle.
• Make sure your passengers are also buckled.
• If you already wear your safety belt, keep it up.

As an incentive to increase awareness of the importance of wearing a seat belt to future drivers, the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles is inviting Florida middle school students to submit suggestions for a new seat belt poster and calendar for 2014. The contest will encourage students to submit ideas that will motivate others to buckle up. For more information, go to www.flhsmv.gov and
click on Seat Belt Poster Contest.