Click it or ticket: TXDOT reminds drivers of seatbelt safety

MCALLEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Representatives and speakers from state and federal departments are reminding drivers and passengers of the importance of wearing a seatbelt at all times.

The Texas Department of Transportation is marking the 22nd anniversary for its Click It or Ticket campaign that shares the risks of not wearing a seatbelt.

TxDOT statistics show 90% of Texas drivers use a seatbelt.

According to TxDOT, the majority of drivers who do not use a seatbelt and fall under the 10% are truck drivers.

"You never know when you're going to be in an accident. So, wearing that seatbelt will get you home to your family safely," Alex Meade, a commissioner with TxDOT said.

The Texas Department of Public Safety states everybody in a vehicle should be properly secured with a seatbelt by state law.

DPS Sgt. Maria Hernandez says a driver can face a fine for not wearing a seatbelt behind the wheel.

"It is state law. You can receive a fine of up to $200," Hernandez said. "But let's forget about the money right now. Let's think about the lives. It's the life that's important. The last thing we want to do as DPS is go over to your residence and notify your loved ones that because you weren't secured by a safety belt, you lost your life in a motor vehicle crash."

Hernandez asks drivers and passengers to enjoy the summer but be responsible on the road and buckle up.