Troopers Not ‘Sitting’ on Seat Belt Violators

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO) — As some 32 million people plan to hit the roadways for the Memorial Day Holiday weekend, South Carolina Highway Patrol officials remind you that seat belt violations are now a primary offense in the state. Previously, a seat belt violation was secondary, which meant you would have to get stopped for a different violation, like speeding, and then be cited for a seat belt infraction. Not anymore. The seat belt laws were modified a couple of years ago. Now, it’s a primary violation to not wear a seat belt or to wear one incorrectly, like with the lap portion only in place. According to the Highway Patrol, you are seven times more likely to die in a car crash not wearing a seat belt. Considering some 32-million nationwide plan to drive Memorial Day weekend, authorities say those odds are too serious to ignore. Authorities say they are targeting seat belt violators more strongly. A seat belt violation results in a $25 fine.