North Dakota’s Seatbelt Safety Initiative: Click-It-4-Coffee
In North Dakota, a significant number of fatalities from motor vehicle accidents have been attributed to unbelted drivers and passengers. Between 2019 and 2023, over half of the individuals who lost their lives in crashes were not wearing seatbelts, according to recent statistics from Vision Zero.
Understanding the Statistics
Notably, 79% of those unbelted deaths involved male victims, highlighting a crucial gap in seatbelt usage among this demographic. In response, the state is ramping up its efforts to raise awareness about the importance of seatbelt compliance.
Campaign Launch: Click-It-4-Coffee
This year, Vision Zero is revitalizing its popular “Click-It-4-Coffee” campaign, aiming to engage more residents in the seatbelt safety conversation. This initiative encourages local coffee shops to participate by allowing law enforcement officers to distribute customers’ coffee orders while discussing seatbelt safety.
Community Engagement and Incentives
Molly Schoen, the outreach coordinator for the northwest region, emphasized the memorable nature of this engagement strategy. “I can stand out there and hand out coupons and I’m sure it will be a little bit memorable, but it’s pretty memorable when an officer is handing you your drive-through coffee out the window. And for those that are wearing their seatbelts, they get rewarded, and we talk to them about how that’s great,” said Schoen.
Along with promoting seatbelt usage, participating customers will receive a $0.50 coupon for their next coffee purchase, adding an incentive for compliance.
National Seatbelt Safety Awareness Month
May has been designated as National Seatbelt Safety Awareness Month, making this an opportune time for this campaign. In total, nine coffee shops across North Dakota are taking part in the initiative, reinforcing the vital message of seatbelt safety.
Conclusion
For a list of the participating coffee locations and further information about the campaign, residents can visit the Vision Zero website. This initiative is not just about coffee; it’s about saving lives by promoting the simple act of buckling up.
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