New statistics show almost half of driving fatalities in Maine over the last three years were people not wearing their seat belts. Enforcement efforts are increasing with the start of the summer holiday season.
Last year, 126 people died in car accidents and 52 of them weren't wearing seatbelts.
Maine's seat belt usage rate is almost 94% but the Maine Bureau of Highway Safety said it is working to get those remaining few to buckle up and save lives.
Fines for not wearing a seat belt are $50 for a first offense and increases up to $250 for subsequent offenses.
There have been 30 fatal crashes already this year and the bureau said Memorial Day kicks off a time with a significant increase in fatal crashes due to travel and increased rates of speeding and impaired driving.
Maine is participating in the national "Click it or Ticket" campaign through June 1 with extra scrutiny from law enforcement ensuring people are buckled up.
