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N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – A seat belt is the single most effective life-saving tool to prevent death and injury in a motor vehicle crash. Data shows that in North Dakota, some occupants are resisting or forgetting to buckle up.

Nearly 60 percent of all motor vehicle fatalities were unbuckled in 2013. This month, reminders will be increased in the form of tickets. Officers will use citations to remind motorists the importance of seat belts. Extra patrols will be added throughout the state with over 46 law enforcement agencies in the state participating. Some agencies include Jamestown, Carrington, Napoleon, Valley City and LaMoure County.

Rural areas will also be enforced. In 2013, approximately 88 percent of vehicle fatalities in North Dakota happened in rural areas. Funding is being provided by the NDDOT.