P-9-08

P R O C L A M A T I O N
DESIGNATING MAY 2008 AS “CLICK IT OR TICKET” MONTH
FOR THE 2008 MARYLAND CHIEFS’ CHALLENGE CAMPAIGN

WHEREAS, every 13 minutes someone in America is killed in a crash; and

WHEREAS, motor vehicle crashes are currently the leading cause of death for young people age two through thirty-four, outpacing crime and disease-related causes; and

WHEREAS, approximately 75 percent of passenger vehicle occupants who are totally ejected from their vehicle are killed, but only one in 100 drivers and passengers in fatal crashes who were wearing their seat belts were totally ejected; and

WHEREAS, regular seat belt use is the single most effective way to protect people and reduce fatalities in motor vehicle crashes; and

WHEREAS, when worn correctly, seat belts reduce the risk of fatal injury by 45 percent for front-seat passenger car occupants and by 60 percent for pickup truck, SUV, and minivan occupants; and

WHEREAS, child safety seats are the most effective occupant protection devices used in motor vehicles, and when used correctly, they are more than 70 percent effective in reducing fatalities in children age five and younger;

WHEREAS, one of the best defenses against the drunk, drugged or aggressive driver is the use of the safety belts, and the use of properly installed child safety seats and booster seats;

WHEREAS, continued public awareness, education, and enforcement of Maryland’s seat belt and child passenger safety laws will result in a significant reduction in traffic-related deaths and serious injuries;

WHEREAS, “The 2008 Maryland Click it or Ticket Campaign” provides communities with an excellent opportunity to join Maryland’s law enforcement community in their efforts to increase safety belt use among all populations, and during both night and day time;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED by the Council of the City of Bowie, Maryland that the Month of May is proclaimed Click it or Ticket Month in recognition of this statewide lifesaving opportunity, and encourage the community to increase the use of safety belts, child safety seats, and booster seats with the goal of increasing Maryland’s overall use rates; to support the efforts of enforcement agencies to increase compliance with Maryland’s occupant protection laws; and to encourage all motorists to make a habit for life and to always buckle up.

INTRODUCED AND PASSED by the Council of the City of Bowie, Maryland at a Regular Meeting on May 5, 2008.

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G. Frederick Robinson, Mayor


Attest:

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Pamela A. Fleming, City Clerk