Hitting the road for Labor Day? Follow this Buckeye state tradition to stay safe

Hitting the road for Labor Day? Follow this Buckeye state tradition to stay safe

As Americans take to the roads this Labor Day weekend for end of summer trips, the first instinct of most drivers and passengers will be to buckle their seat belts. But that simple safety precaution hasn't always been a given - at least not until a decades-long advocacy campaign to promote seat belts and safe driving started in Ohio and moved across the country.

In honor of America's 250^th anniversary, organizers from all 50 states highlighted contributions that people, businesses and organizations from their states made to the country over the last 250 years to help improve the lives of their fellow Americans. In Ohio, the America 250 - Ohio Commission chose to recognize the seatbelt advocacy campaign, started by Nationwide.

Nationwide worked alongside lawmakers and public safety partners to help advance legislation designed to save lives. That work helped shape the seat belt laws in place today - and reflects the company's broader belief that protection extends beyond products and policies.

As you and your family take to the open road this weekend, remember to drive safe, fasten your seatbelt and protect what matters most.