For 44 days, beginning August 18 through Sept. 30, troopers with Troop E-Scottsbluff will conduct high visibility patrols in and around Scotts Bluff County. The effort will place special emphasis on seat belt usage as troopers work to reduce the potential for serious injury and fatality crashes.

In the past 18 months, nine people have been killed on county roads in Scotts Bluff County. Two people have died in crashes on state highways in the County. Of the nine people killed on Scotts Bluff County roads, none were wearing a seat belt. To date in 2014, 78% of the fatal crashes in the panhandle involve unrestrained occupants.

“We need motorists to buckle-up,” said Captain Mike Gaudreault, Commander Troop E-Scottsbluff. “Whether it’s a quick trip or a long journey, wearing your seat belt increases your odds of surviving a crash by up to 50%.”

A $5,850, grant from the Nebraska Office of Highway Safety will help fund the special enforcement effort.

Captain Gaudreault said, “Do your part, help us save lives, buckle up every trip, every time.”