May 22, 2023
Memorial Day weekend kicks off the busy summer travel season when many Montanans hit the road for vacation, celebrations, and recreation. Memorial weekend also marks the start of the deadliest time of year on Montana roads.
In Montana, nearly 50% of all fatal crashes occur during the summer months. Many of these fatalities could have been prevented by wearing a seat belt - reducing the chance of fatal injury by nearly half.
Law enforcement agencies across Montana are adding additional patrols to educate the public on proper seat belt use and crack down on motorists who fail to buckle up. This increased statewide enforcement is part of the national Click It Or Ticket campaign, focusing on safety education, strong laws and law enforcement officers saving lives. From May 22, 2023, through June 4, 2023, increased patrols are out to remind travelers to buckle up - every person, every trip, every time.
As Montanans, we must continue to work together towards Vision Zero-zero deaths and zero serious injuries on our roads. Commit to everyone in the vehicle buckling up and using age-appropriate child passenger safety restraints.