Cuyahoga County Leads Ohio In Seat Belt-Related Deaths, Injuries

CLEVELAND — Northeast Ohioans have a real problem buckling up. Cuyahoga County leads the state in seat belt violations, according to data from the Ohio State Highway Patrol. The county has had more than 750 serious or fatal injuries related to seat belts so far in 2019.

“Your safety belt is vital to surviving a crash,” said Lt. Rob Gable, commander of the Cleveland Highway Patrol post. “By using safety belts you are dramatically increasing your odds of surviving and reducing injury in crashes. Make it a habit to always buckle up every time.”

With 752 recorded injuries or deaths in 2019, Cuyahoga County easily outpaces its next closest competition, Franklin County, which has recorded 539 seat belt-related deaths or injuries. Hamilton County had the third most deaths or injuries, with 451.

Still, statewide, more Ohioans are wearing seat belts than in previous years. According to the 2018 Observational Seat Belt Survey, about 85 percent of driver wear their seat belts, a slight increase versus 2017.

Drivers in Ohio cannot be pulled over for not wearing a seat belt. However, police may ticket passengers or drivers who are found to not be wearing a seat belt in cars that have been stopped for other reasons.

Last year, 121,019 people were convicted of driving or riding in a passenger vehicle without wearing a safety belt, the Highway Patrol said.

“Using a seat belt is one of the most effective ways to save lives and reduce injuries in crashes,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “Buckling up helps keep you safe and secure inside your vehicle and is the easiest thing you can do to protect yourself, your family, and friends.”