More than 3,000 people learned their lesson and will probably buckle up the next time they get in their car.
State police say they issued 3,008 tickets on the Thruway during the statewide seat belt enforcement initiative known as "Buckle Up New York." It took place during the last 2 weeks of November.
"The message is clear. The Authority will continue to drive home the message that seat belts save lives," said Thruway Authority Executive Director Michael R. Fleischer.
State police say 24 percent of all deadly accidents on the Thruway last year involved people not wearing seat belts.
"Wearing a seat belt is not an option; it's the law," said Troop T Commander Major Robert C. Meyers. "Troop T has a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to enforcing this life-saving rule."
In 2009, State Police issued approximately 18,000 tickets to people not wearing their seat belts on the Thruway.
In case you need a refresher, here's the law in New York State:
Drivers and front-seat passengers who are 16 years of age and older must buckle up or face a fine of up to $50. Drivers who fail to properly secure their children may be fined $100, and get three points on their license.
