“Click It or Ticket” Enforcement Begins Across Hudson Valley

New York: The First State To Implement Seat Belt Law

Did you know that New York was the first state to implement a seat belt law?

According to Sobo & Sobo, New York's "mandatory seat belt law" has been in effect since December 1st, 1984. New York was the first state in the nation to bring the law to the forefront.

This enforcement campaign is infamously known as "Click It of Ticket" or "Buckle Up New York."

When it first became a law in 1984, the law applied to drivers, front-seat passengers and kids under the age of 16. However, the Port Jervis Police Department explains that only a few short years ago the legislation was expanded.

The Port Jervis Police state:

The legislation was officially expanded to require every passenger in a motor vehicle (including all backseat passengers) to buckle up, regardless of their age, on November 1, 2020.

These laws still apply today and law enforcement agencies are on the lookout for offenders.

Click It Or Ticket Campaign Underway in the Hudson Valley

In a post shared by the East Fishkill Police Department on social media we learn that a Buckle Up New York campaign is underway.

They write "The East Fishkill Police Department is joining agencies across New York State for the “Click It or Ticket” campaign running May 18th through May 31st."

The East Fishkill Police Department adds:

Whether you’re driving across town or heading out on a long trip, make sure every passenger is properly restrained. Buckle up and help keep our roads safe for everyone.

Seat belts save lives every ride, every time

Statistics show that "nearly 50% of people killed in crashes weren't wearing a seat belt." Additionally, seat belts are said to reduce the risk of fatal injury by 45% for front seat passengers.

The Click It Or Ticket Laws in New York State

What happens if you're not fastening your seat belt in New York?

The East Fishkill Police explain that drivers, and passengers, can be fined for not buckling their seat belts. The Governors Traffic and Safety Committee gives more detail sharing that an adult in New York not wearing a seat belt can be fined up to $140.

They add that if a driver "fails to properly secure a passenger under the age of 16, the fines and penalties are significantly higher."

Take a look at the graphic shared by the East Fishkill Police Department for a closer look at the Click It or Ticket Laws: