Seat belts. . .best defense against drunk drivers

Last year, two people were killed on North Dakota roads almost every week in traffic crashes. Seven out of ten were not wearing a seat belt and two out of five were alcohol-related.

"A seat belt is a person's best defense against a drunk driver," said Dawn Olson, Traffic Safety Manager, Drivers License and Traffic Safety Division, North Dakota Department of Transportation. This spring law enforcement teamed up with the nation's seat belt and impaired driving mobilizations to increase safety on North Dakota roadways. That emphasis will continue throughout the summer, according to the "Do Buckle, Don't Booze" Campaign, a statewide effort to increase seat belt use and eliminate impaired driving.

Officer Joel Nelson of the Fargo Police Department knows first hand the benefits of wearing a seat belt. This spring he was hit by a drunk driver. Because he was wearing a seat belt, Officer Nelson walked away.

The impaired and unbuckled driver was ejected from his vehicle and seriously injured.

"I had no idea I would be involved in a crash that night," said Officer Nelson. "Because I was prepared for the worst, I survived. No one can fully prepare themselves for a crash, but you can protect yourself by wearing a seat belt and never drinking and driving."

Throughout the summer, North Dakotans can expect highly visible enforcement of impaired driving and seat belt use. To further enhance the enforcement, the "Do Buckle, Don't Booze" Campaign, will conduct a public information promotion at the North Dakota State Fair.