WSP, Local Police Begin Seat Belt Emphasis Patrols

MERCER ISLAND, WA — Local and state police around Puget Sound began a "click it or ticket" emphasis campaign on Monday, targeting unrestrained drivers and passengers on local roads and highways.

Almost every police department in King County is participating, from Mercer Island to Snoqualmie to Algona. There are about 145 agencies participating in the campaign across the state.

Seat belt use is pretty high in Washington, according to the state Traffic Safety Commission (WTSC). About 93.2 percent of motorists use them compared to the national average of 89.7 percent. But the state wants that number at 100 percent. Young men between 21 and 25 are most likely to die in a car crash while not wearing a seat belt, according to the WTSC.

"Let’s all work together and get everyone to click it, no exceptions. It’s not just a matter of avoiding a ticket, it’s about keeping everyone safe on the road," WTSC Occupant Protection Program Manager Scott Waller said in a statement.

The "click it or ticket" emphasis runs through June 2.