NEWMAN – Local police are joining a statewide seatbelt enforcement campaign that offers a straightforward message to drivers: Click it or Ticket.

The Newman Police Department has received a $4,000 grant to fund overtime hours for officers who will be dedicated solely to seat belt and child safety restraint enforcement during the campaign, which starts May 12 and continues through June 1.

“We want to make sure that all drivers and passengers buckle up on every ride, day and night,” said Police Chief Adam McGill. “Our officers will be on the lookout for those who are not buckled up and for teens and children riding not properly restrained.”

Those stopped for seat belt violations can expect a citation, as officers will be taking a zero-tolerance stance.

“We will not accept excuses or give warnings,” McGill cautioned.

In California, first-time seat violations draw a fine of $80 to $91, depending on county, while fines for drivers who have not properly restrained passengers under the age of 16 start at $330.

Officer Joaquin Flores is coordinating the campaign for the Newman Police Department.

He said local officers see room for improvement in seat belt compliance.

“A lot of people still don’t wear their seat belts. I write a lot of seat belt citations,” Flores explained. “A lot of times people give the explanation that they are just going to the store and because it’s just a few blocks don’t have to buckle up.”

The reality, Flores said, is that even a relatively low-speed accident can result in serious injury for drivers and passengers who are not properly restrained in their vehicles.