The Ohio State Highway Patrol is enforcing their Buckle Up campaign.
Last year, 64% of people killed in Ohio traffic crashes were not wearing an available seatbelt – the fifth straight year that rate was over 60%.
New Philadelphia Patrol Post Commander Lt. Johnnie Maier says the goal is to educate all aged drivers and passengers of the importance of putting on a seatbelt every trip.
“Not only protect you in a crash but protect you if you need to make a lane change or evasive movement while driving. It’s going to keep you where you need to be as you are operating a vehicle.”
For 2025, as of November 9th, 373 seatbelt enforcements have been made in Tuscarawas County. Maier says they also look at five year data.
“Here locally, talking about Tuscarawas County and Carroll County, we have had 34 traffic fatalities, during that time period, that involved occupants not wearing their safety belts.”
Maier adds that properly wearing a seatbelt is important, especially for the younger children. Those unsure if a car seat is installed correctly can always stop by the New Philadelphia Patrol Post located on East High Avenue.
“Anytime anybody needs help with that we’ll take a look at that seat, make sure it’s properly set up in the car, make sure it’s the proper seat for the child, and of course, make sure it’s secure.”
Overall, a 2024 survey, through the Ohio Department of Public Safety, showed the state’s safety belt compliance rate at 85%, below the national average of 91%.
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