2007-62
PRESS RELEASE:  December 14, 2007
FROM:   The Kansas Highway Patrol
CONTACT: Lieutenant John A. Eichkorn (785) 296-6800
Technical Trooper Edna Buttler (785) 296-6800
Chris Bortz – KDOT (785) 296-3756

Patrol and KDOT Remind Teens and Parents of Change in Seat Belt Law

Effective January 1, 2008, violations will carry $60 fine

The Kansas Highway Patrol and the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) remind teens and parents of changes made to the state's seat belt law during the 2007 Legislative Session and further changes scheduled to take effect January 1, 2008.

Effective July 1, 2007, Kansas' safety belt use law (K.S.A. 8-2503) was changed to require all drivers and passengers ages 14 through 17 to buckle up at all times regardless of where seated in a vehicle in motion. From July 1 thru December 31, 2007 law enforcement officers only issued warnings for violations.

Effective January 1, 2008, officers may write citations for these violations. The law also provides for primary enforcement, which means a driver may be pulled over and each violator cited solely for the seatbelt violation. The fine is $60, including court costs.

"Seat belts save lives. It's that simple," said Patrol Superintendent Colonel William R. Seck. "Highway Patrol troopers are dedicated to saving lives through enforcement and education. Recent amendments to our seatbelt law demonstrate the State's commitment to protecting the lives of our teens."

Motor vehicle crashes continue to be the leading cause of death for people from 15 to 18 years of age. Changes in the seat belt law were designed to protect drivers, in particular young, inexperienced drivers. And with the likelihood of teen drivers being involved in a crash, it is particularly important for this age group to buckle up.

"It takes five seconds or less to buckle your seat belt, which could make the difference of a lifetime," KDOT Secretary Deb Miller said. "Positive habits instilled in us as children follow us through our teen years and into adulthood. Adults should lead children by example by buckling up every trip, every time they ride in a vehicle and by asking other adults to do the same."