The Idaho Transportation Department’s Office of Highway Safety is encouraging all drivers and passengers to wear seatbelts on every trip.

Currently, 86% of individuals in Idaho utilize seatbelts, leaving a significant number at risk.

Research indicates that seatbelts can reduce the likelihood of fatal injury by more than 50%. However, it has been noted that a majority of those who have lost their lives in vehicle crashes in Idaho were not wearing seatbelts.

Josephine Middleton, Highway Safety Manager for the Office of Highway Safety, stated, “While it is positive that many people in Idaho choose to buckle up, the current percentage is not sufficient for ensuring safety. Our goal is to achieve 100% seatbelt use, as every life lost is significant.”

To promote seatbelt use, law enforcement agencies across Idaho will engage in a statewide high-visibility seatbelt enforcement campaign from May 18 to June 1.

Middleton emphasized, “Idahoans value independence and personal responsibility. Wearing a seatbelt is a simple action that reflects respect for oneself, passengers, and all individuals on the road.”