New Mexico is a primary seatbelt law state, which means people who do not wear seatbelts may be pulled over by law enforcement and receive a citation. Increased seatbelt usage is a major element of the 100 Days and Nights of Summer. Officers will be checking for compliance with New Mexico’s seatbelt law, both during the day and during the night.

Seatbelts remain the best defense against drunk drivers and are a proven lifesaver.

Yet not all New Mexico drivers wear seatbelts, and they are at risk of more serious injuries in the event of a crash. They are also the ones who will be targeted in the 100 Days and Nights of Summer seatbelt campaign.

Drivers of pickup trucks tend to buckle up less often than other motorists.  In 2006, 61 percent of people killed in pickup trucks in New Mexico were not buckled up.

Research also shows that adults who don’t buckle up often fail to buckle up their child passengers. That’s another reason why officers across the state will be issuing citations to motorists not wearing seat belts and those who fail to buckle children riding in their vehicles.

In addition to owing a fine, a citation for not wearing a seatbelt results in a two-point penalty on one's driving record, something that can result in increased auto insurance premiums.

100 Days and Nights of Summer: Slow Down, Buckle Up & Don’t Drink and Drive!