Seat belt team recognized with award

The Vision Zero Priority Emphasis Area Team for Occupant Protection (seat belts) was recently recognized during the Lifesaver Conference in Denver, Colo. for their work to pass North Dakota’s Primary Seat Belt Law.

The Priority Emphasis Area Team was honored with the 2024 National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) Public Service Award. The team includes traffic safety stakeholders from across North Dakota and is led by Ryan Gellner of the North Dakota Association of Counties and Carma Hanson of Safe Kids – Grand Forks.

“The passage of the primary seat belt law would not have been possible without the tireless work of the priority emphasis team. They exemplified dedication to safety and proactive change. Their commitment ensured that seat belts were not just an option but a priority on our roads. This award is well-deserved and hard earned,” said Karin Mongeon, NDDOT Highway Safety Division Director.

The 42nd annual Lifesavers National Conference is the world’s largest conference for highway safety professionals and advocates. The awards luncheon was sponsored by NHTSA.

Learn more about traffic safety initiatives at VisionZero.ND.gov or join the conversation on the Vision Zero ND Facebook or X page.