13 Minnesota Motorists Killed in January Weren’t Buckled Up

The Department of Public Safety says the majority of motorists killed in the last two months were not wearing their seat belts.

Data from the DPS Office of Traffic Safety shows that in January, 13 of 18 people killed in traffic crashes were not buckled up. In December, 18 of 23 motorists killed were not wearing seat belts.

State Patrol Lt. Eric Roeske says the fatalities show that by not buckling up, motorists are giving up their best defense.

Officials say lack of seat belts is a factor in an increase in deaths – this January saw eight more motorist deaths than January 2011.

Most of the January unbelted deaths occurred in greater Minnesota – where seat belt compliance is historically low. It’s state law for drivers and passengers to be belted.