Cornwall, ON – The Annual Seat Belt Safety Campaign will be happening throughout the month of March. Cornwall Police Service (CPS) officers will be enforcing seat belt violations and reminding drivers to buckle up as part of the monthly traffic safety initiative.

Properly worn seat belts can reduce the risk of death by 47%, and limit the risk of serious injury by 52%. Occupants of motor vehicles who do not wear their seat belt are 30 times more likely to be ejected from a vehicle during a crash.

“Failing to buckle up can result in life-changing consequences,” said the Constable Patrick Depratto of the Traffic Unit. “By ensuring everyone in your vehicle is wearing a seat belt properly, you are far more likely to survive an accident, while protecting yourself and your family from serious injuries or fatality.”

If you are driving, you can face a fine if you or anyone in your vehicle under age 16 is not wearing a seatbelt or secured in a proper child seat. If you are convicted, you will:

• be fined between $200 and $1,000
• receive two demerit points - demerit points remain on your driving record for two years

Enhancing traffic safety is a major objective within the CPS Strategic Plan. As such, monthly safety initiatives have been developed to keep the public informed and promote safer roadways and bike paths. These initiatives will be carried out by the Traffic Unit, as well as Community Patrol Officers.

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