Increased fines and more intense enforcement has led to a decrease in seat belt violations around Marion County over the last several years. The fine for operating a vehicle without wearing a seatbelt could cost up to $130 dollars. The Knoxville Police Department saw a decrease of nearly 80% over the past ten years as a result of the higher fines and tighter enforcement. Pella Police Department spokesperson Marcia Slycord says officers in Pella continue to be vigilant about enforcing seatbelt laws and ticketing offenders. According to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, safety belts can reduce the risk of fatal injury by 45% to 60% when worn properly.