Texas News

New safety initiative aims to reduce teen crash fatalities in Texas by promoting seat belt use

Austin, Texas – The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has launched its Teen Click It or Ticket campaign, emphasizing the critical importance of seat belt use among teenage drivers and passengers. The campaign aims to curb the increasing number of teen fatalities caused by failure to buckle up, reminding young Texans that wearing a seat belt is a simple action that can save lives.

According to TxDOT, the number of teens involved in fatal crashes while not wearing a seat belt increased by 6% from 2022 to 2023. Out of 296 teen fatalities on Texas roads last year, 49% were unbuckled at the time of the crash. These alarming statistics underscore the need for continued awareness and education about seat belt safety.

The Importance of Buckling Up

“These fatalities serve as a sobering wake-up call,” said TxDOT Executive Director Marc D. Williams. “Every time someone gets in a car and skips buckling up, they’re taking a deadly gamble. In the event of a crash, seat belts can give you the best chance to survive, and yet far too many Texas teens are still skipping this critical safety step.”

Seat belts remain one of the most effective ways to protect drivers and passengers during crashes. Studies show that proper seat belt use reduces the risk of fatal injury by 45% in cars and 60% in light trucks. Despite these proven safety benefits, many teens continue to take unnecessary risks by not wearing their seat belts.

Statewide Tour to Promote Awareness

To reinforce the message, TxDOT’s Teen Click It or Ticket campaign is hitting the road, bringing an interactive experience to high schools and community colleges across the state. The campaign will feature a trailer displaying the wreckage of a truck crash involving two teenagers who survived with only minor injuries because they were wearing seat belts. A second vehicle will be equipped with screens showcasing educational content about seat belt safety.

The campaign tour will stop at locations where seat belt usage among teens is particularly low, including:

  • Feb. 3 – San Antonio (Palo Alto Community College)
  • Feb. 4 – Austin (Glenn High School)
  • Feb. 6 – Brownwood (Howard Payne University)
  • Feb. 11 – Lufkin (Hudson High School)
  • Feb. 13 – Houston (Houston Community College-Felix Fraga Academic Campus)

Through these in-person events, students will hear firsthand accounts of how seat belts have saved lives and learn about the consequences of failing to buckle up.

The Law and Its Consequences

Beyond being a life-saving decision, wearing a seat belt is also the law in Texas. Failure to comply can result in fines and fees of up to $200 for unbuckled drivers and passengers, including those in the back seat. The goal of Teen Click It or Ticket is not just to enforce compliance but to instill a habit that will keep young drivers and passengers safe for life.

Encouraging Safe Habits

TxDOT is calling on parents, educators, and community leaders to reinforce the importance of seat belt use. Research shows that teens are more likely to wear seat belts when adults set a good example. Schools and families are encouraged to start conversations about seat belt safety and remind teens that taking just a few seconds to buckle up can be the difference between life and death.

A Broader Mission to End Traffic Fatalities

The Teen Click It or Ticket campaign is part of TxDOT’s broader #EndTheStreakTX initiative, which seeks to eliminate daily traffic fatalities in Texas. Shockingly, Texas has not had a death-free day on its roadways since November 7, 2000. Through awareness campaigns like this, TxDOT aims to change behaviors and ultimately end this tragic streak.

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