Earlier this year I started a thread about my getting pulled over regularly
in my Vanagon Westy primarily because the vehicle stands out or fits some
profile.  It happened again yesterday and this time I got a no-seatbelt
ticket ($130).  I should know better by now (4th seatbelt ticket in this
van) but was in one of those shopping areas where I was driving a block from
one store to another in a low-speed zone and was too lazy to put the belt
on, my mistake.

In any case I was informed that there is a click-it-or-ticket campaign going
on for the next few weeks which means that they are looking out for unworn
seatbelts.  This is in the NC area so I don't know if it is nationwide.  The
officer was nice enough to inform me that he wouldn't have pulled me over if
I hadn't been in my van because that is why he noticed and looked at me.
So, if you are driving your Vanagon around NC be extra careful with the
seatbelts at least for the next few weeks.  I always wear one when I drive
on the highways and recommend the same practice but it looks like I need to
get in the habit of putting it on before cranking the vehicle, even if only
moving across a parking lot.

Happy holiday weekend,

Jonathan Poole