Make sure you buckle your seatbelt – the Merriam Police Department starting May 21 will participate in the two-week Click It or Ticket campaign. Drivers can expect an increase of police presence on Merriam roads as officers will be on the lookout for seatbelt violations.

The campaign’s goal is to reduce the number of preventable deaths and injuries that occur from unbelted drivers and passengers. The Kansas Department of Transportation said only 45 percent of those who have a traffic fatality is properly buckled.

“I want Merriam residents to know that when they don’t buckle up, or require passengers to put on their seatbelts, they are putting themselves, their friends, and family members in danger,” Merriam Police Chief Michael Daniels said. “We are committed to enforcing proper seatbelt use throughout our city to have a safer community.”

It can cost you a pretty penny if you’re pulled over for a seatbelt violation. Fine are:
•$30 for adults over 17 years old (front seat occupants)
•$10 for adults over 17 years old (rear seat occupants on second offense)
•$60 for children 14-17 years old
•$60 plus court costs for children 0-13 years old

More than 160 law enforcement agencies are participating in the statewide program, which runs through Sunday, June 3.