341st SFS reminds drivers of seat belt, cell phone policy Published Sept. 3, 2009 By Master Sgt. Gary Gill 341st Security Forces Squadron MALMSTROM AIR FORCE ABSE, Mont. -- In recent months, there has been a significant increase in the number of people not wearing seatbelts while driving on the installation. Research has shown that in Montana, when lap and shoulder seat belts are used properly, the risk of fatal injury to front seat passengers is reduced by 45 percent and the risk of moderate-to-critical injury is reduced by 65 percent. Additionally, there has been an increase in using cell phones without a hands-free device while driving. In some cases, individuals have been seen violating both policies simultaneously. Failure to use restraint devices or hands-free devices while driving are violations in accordance with AFI 31-204_341SWSUP_I and both will result in the loss of base driving privileges. The duration of suspension of privileges increases with each violation and could result in the permanent loss of driving privileges on the installation. Failure to wear a seatbelt is an automatic 30 day suspension of driving privileges. A second violation will result in 90 days of suspended driving privileges and for a third violation is 120 days of walking. If people are seen driving and using their cell phones on base without a hands free device their base driving privileges will be suspended for 10 days for the first violation A second violation will result in a 30 day suspension and 60 days for a third violation. In addition, drivers will receive 3 points on their driving record for each occurrence. In accordance with AFI-31-204, if a driver accumulates 12 points in a one-year period his or her driving privileges on base will be suspended for six months. Due to the increase of reported violations, security forces, in conjunction with wing safety, will be increasing selective enforcement activities. Any individual in violation will be cited and issued a temporary driving suspension letter.