In an effort to curb seat-belt-related fatalities, the Carlton County Sheriff's Office, Cloquet Police Department and Fond du Lac Police Department are teaming up to bring extra seat-belt patrols to the area.
The sheriff's office will also be available to assist with car seat installment during this time.
According to a news release, preliminary reports show that 31 unbelted motorists have died this year in Minnesota — the highest rate since 2012.
"Minnesota motorists are known for their high seat belt compliance rate, but a disturbing development is taking place on Minnesota roads," the release said.
That is why law enforcement agencies statewide have banned together to implement addition seat-belt enforcement from May 24 until June 6.
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Funding for the effort comes from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Office of Traffic Safety leading the campaign.
People not in compliance with state laws regarding seat belts should expect to be stopped.
According to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety , this means "drivers and passengers in all seating positions — including in the backseat — must be buckled up or in the correct child restraint."
A seat-belt ticket is $25, but can ultimately cost more than $100 with fees, with tickets being issued directly to any unbelted person 15 and older. For those unbelted people younger than 15, the driver will be ticketed.
For more information about local efforts, call the Carlton County Sheriff's Office at 218-384-3236.
