Minnesota Cracking Down on Seat Belt Use

Better buckle up if you’re driving in Minnesota.

Police are stepping up enforcement of seat-belt use over a 10-day period. The crackdown began Friday, Oct. 10, and continues through Sunday, Oct. 19.

From 2005 through 2007, more than half of the 1,200 vehicle occupants killed in Minnesota were not wearing seat belts, and nearly 1,300 unbelted motorists were seriously injured in crashes.

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety is coordinating the effort. It includes about 400 law enforcement agencies.

Seat belt citations are $25 but can cost up to $115 with administrative fees.

The enforcement effort will emphasize special nighttime seat belt patrols.