I can remember the days when wearing a seat belt in cars was optional. I can even remember riding in some cars that didn't even have seat belts. It was a bit of a hassle to have to buckle up when that law was passed, but nowadays, it's so routine that we don't even give it a second thought. Well, most people don't anyway.

It's a fact-seat belts save lives. That's why the Texas Department of Transportation teams up with area law enforcement agencies this time of year for their annual 'Click It or Ticket' campaign.

During a 2 week period (May 18-31), officers will be out in full force enforcing seat belt and child safety seat laws.

Texas law requires drivers and all passengers, including those in the back seat, to wear a seat belt or risk a ticket, with fines and court costs as high as $200 each. Children younger than 8 years old must be in a child safety seat or booster seat unless they are taller than 4 feet 9 inches. Fines issued to drivers for unrestrained children in their vehicle can be as high as $250 plus court costs.

According to official statistics, of the more than 3,500 people killed in traffic accidents in the state last year, 44% were not wearing their safety belts. That's is a ridiculously high number.

So, as you can see, wearing your seat belt not only saves lives, it also saves money.

Don't take the chance...it's just not worth it.

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