Of the seven people killed in Minnesota traffic accidents in January, six were not wearing seat belts.
The statistics were released by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety with a reminder to motorists to buckle up. In addition, the Department of Public Safety is teaming up with the American Automobile Association in offering Minnesota teens the chance to win $2,000 in prize money in a contest to see who can make the best TV spot urging young people to wear their seat belts.
According to the traffic statistics from January, four of those killed in accidents during the month were ejected from their vehicle. Three of the seven who died were 19 years old.
Each year in Minnesota, unbelted motorists account for around 200 traffic deaths, representing 55 percent of all motorist deaths. During 2005-2007, there were 614 unbelted vehicle occupant deaths and 1,298 serious injuries.
Traffic crashes are the leading cause of death for teenagers and seat belt non-use is a major factor cited in teen traffic deaths, according to Public Safety records.
To contact a Minnesota car accident lawyer at PritzkerOlsen, please call 612-338-0202, call 1-888-377-8900 (toll-free) or submit our free consultation form.
