The LPD is on a Mission to Prevent Prom/Graduation Tragedies

Law enforcement intensifies patrols to protect teen drivers and passengers Louisville, Mississippi – Prom and Graduation Day — for teenagers, these are two of the most important days of their lives, full of excitement and endless possibilities. However, endless is not always accurate. For many, there is an abrupt ending, one that starts with a short drive and ends with a deadly crash.

In an effort to ensure Winston County teens make it to and from these events safely, the Louisville Police Department will be increasing patrols to enforce seat belt laws and promote safe driving. Officers will have zero-tolerance for those caught not wearing seat belts, targeting unbelted drivers and passengers of all ages, but especially teens. Teen drivers and passengers who do not buckle up will be ticketed and fined. Low seat belt use among teens continues to be a serious problem, as motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for 15 to 20-year-olds. In fact, the fatality rate for drivers ages 16 to 19, based on miles driven, is four times higher than for drivers ages 25 to 69. “When you are young, you often feel invincible,” said Chief Claiborne. “Unfortunately, for teen drivers and passengers that feeling couldn’t be more untrue. We want teens to have fun and enjoy their celebrations, but we want them to make it home safely to their families.”

Local law enforcement remind teens that they can help each other by keeping distractions to a minimum and making it a rule for all in the car to wear seat belts. “By encouraging each other to be safe, you just might save your friend’s life,” said Chief Claiborne. “We want to make our state a safer place for teen drivers and passengers,” he said. “In Mississippi from 2003 to 2008, 78 percent of teens killed in car crashes were not buckled up. That’s 518 who might have lived if someone had simply asked them to put their seat belt on.”

[Louisiana 73%, 487 / Mississippi 78%, 518 / New Mexico 71%, 212 / Oklahoma 71%, 415 / Texas 52%, 1,349]

So whether you’re heading to prom, graduation, or simply a few blocks away to hang out with friends, remember, Click It or Ticket — day and night. Find out more at www.nhtsa.gov/Teen-Drivers.