x
Breaking News
More () »

TxDOT launches 2022 'Click It or Ticket' campaign

Law enforcement officers across Texas will be on high alert for drivers not wearing their seatbelts.

AUSTIN, Texas — Starting Monday, May 23, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) will launch its annual "Click It or Ticket" enforcement campaign.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the campaign. TxDOT says "Click It or Ticket" has helped save 6,972 lives, prevent 120,000 serious injuries and save $26.3 billion in related economic costs over the past two decades.

This year, the Elgin, Texas, teen who went viral after his truck was swept up by a tornado has joined TxDOT's campaign. 

RELATED: Trauma expert weighs in on traffic death increase in Austin

Riley Leon spoke at a TxDOT media conference on May 16 about how wearing a seatbelt saved him when he was caught in the March 21 tornado. 

"It was a couple days after that I realized that, thank God, I wore my seatbelt that day. Because if not, the accident could have been more tragic. I probably wouldn't be here at this moment without my seatbelt. But, thankfully, I wore it and I'm here," Leon said.

With the campaign now in effect, police officers, sheriff's deputies and state troopers across Texas will be on the lookout for people not wearing their seatbelts. The "Click It or Ticket" enforcement campaign starts May 23 and runs through June 5.

Texas law requires everyone in a vehicle to be properly secured in the front or back seat or face fines and fees up to $200. Children younger than 8 years old must be restrained in a child safety seat or booster seat unless they are taller than 4 feet, 9 inches. If a child isn’t secured, the driver faces fines of up to $250.

Dominique Newland on social media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

KVUE on social media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube

PEOPLE ARE ALSO READING:

Live look: Northbound MoPac reduced to one lane at Windsor Road following deadly crash

'I just started bawling': They offered $100K over on a house and got rejected - again. What does it take?

Missing Dallas girl found in Arlington believed to have been sex trafficked, family says

Austin-area cyclist charged with murder in fellow cycling star's death in East Austin

Before You Leave, Check This Out