SEAT BELT SAFETY
INTRODUCTION
Every day, Oklahomans get in their cars, headed to work, school, activities or home to loved ones. But too often, they’re making that trip without buckling up. Despite years of public safety efforts, NHTSA data from 2023 showed Oklahoma ranked 44th in seat belt usage nationwide. That means lives are being lost in crashes where a seat belt could have made the difference. Wearing one can cut the risk of a fatal injury by nearly half.
That’s why Gov. Kevin Stitt has made increasing seat belt use one of Oklahoma’s Top Ten initiatives, with a goal to raise our usage rate by 10% in the coming years. The Oklahoma Department of Transportation and Oklahoma Turnpike Authority are asking you to be our safety partner. Make buckling up as automatic as starting your car. Whether you’re on a short trip or a long haul, Never Skip the Click — because one small action can make all the difference.
Seat belts are the most effective safety feature available in vehicles today.
PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENTS
Never Skip the Click:
Trey Weber Testimonial
On June 19, 2024, a normal morning commute changed everything for Trey Weber. Running late, he crested a hill near Wellston and slammed into a stopped commercial vehicle. Trey wasn’t wearing his seat belt. What happened next forever changed how he views life — and the choices we make behind the wheel. This is Trey’s testimony, in his own words. Some details are graphic and deeply personal.
New!
Roger Straka, Safety Advocate
Roger Straka, career-long safety advocate and Programs Manager II, Maintenance Division at ODOT, shares ODOT and OTA’s powerful new seat belt safety initiative. Every year, lives are lost simply because someone didn’t take two seconds to buckle up. Roger’s message is clear: no matter where you're going or how short the trip—Never Skip the Click.
New!
Don’t Get Bucked
After the dust settles at the rodeo, one young cowboy reminds his dad of the most important ride of the day — the drive home. It’s a powerful moment between father and son, showing how even the smallest voices can speak volumes about safety.
New!
Buckling Up Makes a Difference
Shelly Williams speaks out about the importance of buckling your seat belt and shares how the loss of her 17-year-old son, Cody, in a crash still impacts her family today.
No Excuses
Whatever your excuse is, it’s not good enough. Wear your seat belt — It’s Not Just About You.
I Buckle
These Oklahomans buckle up. Do you?
Buckle Up OK
The most important decision you can make.
Brad & Lacy Harmon
Brad and Lacy Harmon remember their late son, Trevor, who was killed in a car accident 14 years ago, and remind others every day to buckle up when they get in their vehicle.
Why You Should Buckle Up
Buckling up may be the most important action you can take when getting into a vehicle. Stay safe by always using a seat belt.
Rural 2-Lane Road Safety
We all share the same road. Always take caution when traveling on rural, two-lane roadways.
Is Your Car Seat Installed Correctly?
Keep your child safely secured every time they're in the car.