Click-It-Or-Ticket: Maui Police Issue 142 Seatbelt Citations

142 seatbelt citations were issued during the first week of the Click-it-or-ticket campaign on Maui. Maui Now graphic

By Wendy Osher

Maui police issued a total of 142 seatbelt citations during the first week of the nationwide Click-It-Or-Ticket campaign that began on May 13th.

Police also issued seven child seat citations, 23 citations for cell phone violations, four pick-up bed violations, and 47 moving or other violations.  Officers also made one arrest each for an outstanding warrant, driving with a revoked license, and operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol.

Officers with the department’s Traffic Division worked saturation patrols focusing enforcement efforts on violations related to proper seatbelt usage.

As of May 30, 2019, Maui police have issued 877 seatbelt violations and 82 child restraint violations for the 2019 calendar year. In 2018, a total of 2337 seatbelt citations and 241 child restraint violations were issued by Maui police.

Maui Police Traffic Division Commander, Lieutenant William Hankins said officers noticed an increase in voluntary compliance islandwide, with more motorists and passengers properly wearing seatbelts.  The highest compliance area, he said, was in Kīhei.

“Seatbelts save lives and prevent injuries, so we were extremely glad to see motorists and passengers properly wearing their seatbelt,” said Lt. Hankins.

The national Click it or Ticket campaign will continue through this weekend, until June 2, 2019; however, the Maui Police Department will continue its efforts year round to address and enforce all traffic laws and promote safe driving practices.