Prince George's County, MD - Police Department : Buckle Up

in the 2003 Maryland Chiefs' Challenge Campaign. The purpose of this campaign is to increase the public's awareness and use of safety belts and child safety seats through education and enforcement. Here are some interesting facts.

"Every 15 seconds, someone in America is injured in a traffic crash."

"Every 13 seconds, someone in America is killed in a crash."

"When used properly, lap and shoulder belts reduce the risk of fatal or serious occupant injury to front seat passengers by 45 to 55 percent."

"Child safety seats are the most effective occupant protection devices used in motor vehicles today, and when used correctly, they are 71 percent effective in reducing fatalities in children age five and younger."

"Traffic-related injuries are the leading cause of all injury deaths in America and the leading cause of death for people ages six through 33 years old."

"Nationally, traffic crashes cost $150 billion a year, including $17 billion in medical care and emergency services expenses, and $107 billion in lost productivity and property losses."

"One of the best defenses against the drunk and drugged driver is the use of safety belts combined with air bags for adults, and the use of properly installed child safety seats and booster seats, in the rear seat of most vehicles."

"75% of all crashes occur within 25 miles of home."

"Through continued public awareness, education, and enforcement of Maryland's seat belt and child passenger safety laws, death and serious injury can be significantly reduced."

Officers throughout Maryland will be enforcing the safety belt and child safety seat laws. A motorist in Maryland can be stopped and cited solely for failure to obey these laws. So, be safe; avoid a ticket... BUCKLE UP!

Sgt. Jay Ianni