Posted on May 14, 2026
Oh no! Red and blue flashing lights in the rear-view mirror. What could you have possibly done wrong? You just hopped in the car for a quick trip to the store. You’re driving the speed limit, not blasting your music, using your blinkers. Did you remember to fasten your seat belt? No.
From May 18–31, officers statewide are stepping up their efforts to ticket anyone not wearing a seat belt, especially at night.
In 2025, 965 people who died in crashes on Texas roads were not buckled up. While that was a 10% decline from the previous year, which had 1,072 unbuckled fatalities, more lives could have been saved with a click.
More than half of unbuckled fatalities happen at night. You might think that under the cover of darkness, police officers don’t notice unbuckled drivers and passengers. But they do. If you’re pulled over, that means you’ll face fines and court costs up to $200. Instead of putting yourself and others in danger, remember: buckle up day and night, every rider, every ride.
#DriveLikeATexan
Posted by TxDOT Traffic Safety
Copyright 2026. Texas Department of Transportation. All Rights Reserved.
