GALENA, Ill. – The Jo Daviess County Sheriff’s Office is urging drivers to buckle up during the national “Click It or Ticket” campaign, running May 16-27, 2025, alongside the Memorial Day holiday.

“Seat belts are a must, not optional,” said Chief Deputy Klaus Kretschmer. “They save lives and are required by law. Our deputies will enforce this relentlessly to keep roads safe.”

Illinois’ seat belt law, enacted in 1985 and strengthened in 2003, mandates seat belt use for drivers and front-seat passengers aged eight and older, with child safety seats required for those under eight. Compliance has soared from 15.9% in 1985 to 92.4% in 2024, but the remaining 7.6% still risk lives.

The campaign emphasizes nighttime enforcement, as 2023 data shows 72% of male crash fatalities were unrestrained, compared to 28% of females. Law enforcement will issue citations day and night with zero tolerance.

Funded by federal highway safety funds through the Illinois Department of Transportation, “Click It or Ticket” promotes safer roads. Learn more at ItsNotAGameIllinois.com.