The state of North Carolina is once again launching a “Click It or Ticket” campaign over Thanksgiving week. It is a simple idea: Local and state police will be on the lookout for motorists who are not following state seatbelt and child restraint laws. Drivers who are in violation of the law will receive a citation. The crackdown started Nov. 19 and will last through Sunday, Nov. 25.
North Carolina law requires the driver and all passengers age 16 and older to be buckled up — even passengers in rear seats. Children who weigh 80 pounds or who are between 8 and 16 can use standard seat belts, as long as they are adjusted properly. If a child is 40 pounds or heavier and the vehicle does not accommodate the proper installation of a booster seat, the child can be restrained with only a properly fitted lap belt. Under no circumstances is a child or adult to wear a shoulder harness under the arm.
Child restraint devices are required for children who weigh less than 80 pounds and are under age 8. Booster seats are appropriate for children between 40 and 80 pounds, as long as the seat meets federal standards and the seat is installed correctly.
The law requires that restraint devices for smaller children — under 5 and under 40 pounds — be placed in the rear seat if the vehicle has a passenger side air bag. If there is no rear seat, or if the device is approved for use with air bags, the restraint may be placed in the front seat.
The penalties are not as stiff as they could be. The cost, however, can be your life or the life of a loved one. As you set out for holiday travel this weekend, make sure you follow the rules to keep yourself and your family — and everyone else on the road — safe.
Source: The Dispatch, “Law enforcement begins Thanksgiving ‘Click It or Ticket’ effort,” Nov. 19, 2012
Our firm helps motorists who have been ticketed for seat belt or other traffic violations. If you are interested in learning more about our Raleigh, North Carolina, practice, please visit our traffic tickets page.
