The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission (LHSC) is spearheading a new initiative to boost seat belt usage among pickup truck drivers and passengers through its ‘Buckle Up in Your Truck’ campaign. This effort comes as statistics show that pickup truck occupants have a lower seat belt usage rate and a higher fatality rate when unbuckled compared to other vehicle types.
The Problem
In Louisiana, pickup truck drivers are less likely to wear seat belts than drivers of other vehicles. Data from the Center for Analytics and Research in Transportation Safety at LSU revealed that in 2023, 62% of pickup truck drivers killed in crashes were not wearing a seat belt. This percentage is higher than for drivers of cars, vans, and SUVs.
Enforcement and Penalties
To address this issue, law enforcement officers across the state are increasing enforcement of seat belt laws, particularly targeting pickup trucks. The fine for not wearing a seat belt is $50 for the first offense and $75 for subsequent offenses. “The bottom line is, buckle up in your truck, save 50 bucks, and possibly save your life,” said LHSC Executive Director Lisa Freeman.
Seat Belt Usage Statistics
An observational survey conducted by LHSC in 2024 found that while the overall seat belt usage rate in Louisiana has reached an all-time high of 88.4% for all vehicles, it remains lower for pickup trucks at 82.7%. This is still below the national average of 91.2% reported in 2024. The survey also highlighted regional variations within the state, with the Shreveport area having the highest pickup truck seat belt usage rate at 93.9%, while the Alexandria region had the lowest at 66.0%.
The Importance of Buckling Up
“We know that pickup truck drivers are less likely than other drivers to wear their seat belts,” Freeman said. “What’s happening is that too many pickup truck drivers are getting killed.” Louisiana law requires all occupants of a motor vehicle, including those in the back seat, to properly use a seat belt or child seat. The LHSC is emphasizing that buckling up is crucial not only for avoiding fines but also for preventing serious injuries or fatalities in the event of a crash.
