Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee, Nascar Driver Ross Chastain Promote “Protect Your Melon” Ahead of Watkins Glen

Before he buckles in to “Go Bowling at the Glen” at Watkins Glen International this weekend, NASCAR Driver Ross Chastain will be continuing his 9-year partnership with the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee. He will be meeting fans and promoting the “Protect Your Melon” seat belt safety awareness program.  

Fans will have two opportunities to see Chastain at a meet and greet session at the Schuyler County Courthouse in Watkins Glen on Thursday, May 7 from 9 a.m. to Noon and again from 1 to 3 p.m. He will also make a brief appearance at the Department of Motor Vehicles booth at Watkins Glen International on Sunday, May 10 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.  

“We are thrilled to partner with Ross Chastain again this year to get the message out to New Yorkers about the importance of vehicle occupant safety,” said Acting NYS DMV Commissioner Christian Jackstadt. “Ross has to wear multiple seat belts to protect his melon when he gets into his car before a race. Most of us only have to buckle one. It only takes a few seconds and can make all the difference in a crash. Buckle up, every seat, every time.”

NASCAR Driver Ross Chastain said, "I always enjoying heading to New York to work with the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee and the Department of Motor Vehicles on the Protect Your Melon program. This year will be no different, as I am racing in all three series at Watkins Glen in addition to our normal public appearances. These races and events all provide a great opportunity for me to remind New Yorkers to Buckle Up. It is the single most important thing you can do to be safe in the event of a crash."  

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), data shows that if you buckle up in the front seat of a passenger car, you can reduce your risk of fatal injury by 45 percent and moderate to critical injury by 50 percent.  

New York was the first state in the nation to pass legislation requiring drivers and front-seat passengers to use seat belts. In 2020, the seat belt law was strengthened to require everyone in passenger vehicles, regardless of where they sit, to wear a seat belt or be properly restrained in a child safety seat.  

New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James said, “Our members see first-hand the devastating effects suffered by those who don’t buckle up when they climb into a vehicle. Drivers need to remember that occupant safety isn’t just about high-speed crashes on major roadways – it’s about taking the time to buckle up and ensure your passengers are properly secured every time you start your car.  The State Police are proud to unite with the GTSC in our efforts to increase seat belt use across New York State to reduce the number of fatalities and serious injuries in crashes.”    

Juan Figueroa, Ulster County Sheriff and President of the NYS Sheriffs’ Association said, “Whether you are driving a race car like Ross Chastain or heading to the grocery store, the easiest thing people can do to protect themselves in a crash is wear a seat belt.  Everyone must buckle-up or be in an appropriate child restraint device, even back seat passengers.  The Sheriffs of New York State want you to Protect your Melon so you can eat watermelon this spring.  It’s simple, it’s smart, and it’s the law!”

Chief Paul Oliva, Mount Pleasant Police Department and New York State Assn. of Chiefs of Police President said, “We proudly support the GTSC’s Protect Your Melon campaign. Wearing a seat belt is a simple action that can prevent life-altering injuries. This initiative allows law enforcement an opportunity to connect with the community while promoting critical safety habits."  

About GTSC  
Combined with education and enforcement campaigns, GTSC coordinates various traffic safety activities throughout the year, and supports ongoing initiatives to improve pedestrian, motorcycle and bicycle safety. The GTSC also sponsors critical training for law enforcement, provides resources for teen drivers and their parents, and promotes seat belt use statewide.  

For more information about traffic safety in New York State, please visit the GTSC website  and follow the conversation on Facebook, X and Instagram.  

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