Seat Belts

California Highway Patrol officers will step up their efforts to catch people not using their seat belts and driving under the influence of alcohol during the Labor Day weekend. Statewide, 45 people died during the Fourth of July weekend, according to a CHP news release. More than half of the people killed were not wearing seat belts. During the 2002 Labor Day weekend, 45 people were killed on the roads, while 1,563 people were arrested on suspicion of DUI. The CHP advises people planning to attend a Labor Day party to plan ahead and designate a driver before arriving at the festivities.

The California Highway Patrol will target drivers not wearing seat belts starting Monday with a new media campaign. The new campaign will emblazon billboards with "Remember. Or Be Remembered." The campaign will also use radio and cable TV commercials in English and Spanish with $1.5 million in funds from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The media blitz will be targeted specifically toward drivers who forget to buckle up for short trips.

Gretchen Hoffman LA CRESCENTA -- Drivers in the foothills should double-check their seat belts before they head out -- Crescenta Valley Sheriff's deputies are on the lookout for offenders. As part of a national campaign this week, deputies are targeting drivers who aren't wearing seat belts or whose children aren't properly secured in a child seat. A driver without a seat belt -- or one that is working improperly -- is all officers need to see. "You can tell whether they are in compliance, whether they have the shoulder harness over the shoulder," Deputy Jim Smith said.

It is sad to see how unhappy Jean Lewis is. So, Ms. Lewis, since that is your view, here is a little something for you to think about. Children are not an obstacle, they are human beings who need to be brought up with love and understanding -- obviously something you did not get. Pedestrians to spare -- are you volunteering? Seat belts not required; I surely don't want you flying across the road, splattering onto my car and causing me and my family harm!