LINCOLN — Nebraskans are lagging the nation in using seat belts while driving, which officials said Thursday has contributed to a 30% increase in highway fatalities.

Only 81% of Nebraskans buckle up, making the state 47th in the country in the use of safety belts. The national average is 90%.

“It’s a two-second action that can significantly increase your safety,” Col. John Bolduc, the superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol, said about putting on a seat belt.

The Patrol announced a stepped-up enforcement effort, "Click It or Ticket," to increase seat belt usage on Thursday, May 19.

Due to the number of fatal accidents, Bolduc said the summer driving season is oftentimes referred to as "the 100 deadliest days."

According to John Selmer, director of the Nebraska Department of Transportation, Nebraska had fewer deaths in 2021 from highway crashes than in 2020, contrary to a national trend.

But in 2022, fatalities are up more than 30%, Selmer said, mirroring the national trends. Through April, 84 people have died on Nebraska highways, compared with 61 traffic fatalities in the same period a year ago.

Seat belt usage reduces the chances of dying in an accident by 45%, officials said.

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