Dear Principal Dahm:

On a positive note, every year, seatbelt use in the United States increases and Illinois is not an exception.  currently, the seatbelt compliance rate in Illinois is at 90%.  There is one group, however, that lags behind the rest.  Teenagers -- are just learning to drive, some are experimenting with drugs and alcohol and they are the age group least likely to wear seatbelts.  This is an age of peer pressure, desire for independence, and risk-taking behavior.  Obviously, if we can increase sealtbelt use in the teen years, we can redice tje mi,ber pf deatjs om tjos age group.

In a effort to confront this deadly trend, the Illinois State Police recently completed a survey of students wearing seatbelts as they arrived for class at area high schools.  The results of this survey show 95% of the students entering Belleville West High School were wearing seat belts.  We commend those students for crossing their heart with a promise that can keep them alive!

The Illinois State Police ask that you help us spread the word to all students, faculty, and staff in your school regarding the importance of wearing seatbelts.  For useful information, materials and ideas for promoting driver safety, or support through an assembly or driver safety program, please contact Trooper Ralph Timmins, Illinois State Police, District 11 Public Information Officer at 618.346.3524.

You may pass the message that in the very near future, the Illinois State Police will be at your high school strictly enforcing the seat belt laws.  We seek voluntary compliance, but will do what is necessary to gain compliance and save lives.

Again, congratulations and thank you to those students at your school who were caught obeying the seatbelt law.  We appreciate your assistance.  We know you care about the safety of your students and your community, and we do too.  If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at 618.346.3610.

Sincerely,

Lieutenant Jerry Culp

Interim District 11 Commander

1100 Eastport Plaza Drive

Collinsville, IL  62234