Columbus, OH – A new safety campaign by the Ohio State Highway Patrol highlights the deadly consequences of not wearing seat belts, citing thousands of fatalities and injuries across the state in recent years.
According to data released by the Ohio State Highway Patrol on Monday, between 2020 and 2024, there were 2,559 deaths and 62,174 injuries in crashes where seat belts were available but not used. The report underscores the ongoing importance of buckling up, as nearly half of these incidents occurred in just four counties.
Cuyahoga, Franklin, Hamilton, and Montgomery counties accounted for 45% of Ohio’s unbelted fatalities and injuries during this period. Cuyahoga County led the list with 11,617 crashes involving unbelted individuals, followed by Franklin (6,805), Hamilton (6,397), and Montgomery (4,116).
The warning comes as part of the annual “Click It or Ticket” campaign, which runs during peak travel periods and aims to remind drivers and passengers of the life-saving benefits of seat belts. The campaign’s message is simple: buckle up every trip, every time.
Officials continue to urge drivers to take personal responsibility for their safety and the safety of others. “Travel safe, arrive safe,” the post reads, emphasizing that making smart choices—such as wearing a seat belt—can dramatically reduce risk on the road.
As summer travel increases, authorities say enforcement efforts will be stepped up to ensure compliance with Ohio’s seat belt laws.
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