Arkansas law enforcement agencies are partnering with the Arkansas State Police Highway Safety Office (AHSO) this Thanksgiving to remind motorists to buckle up as part of the national “Click It or Ticket” campaign.
The high-visibility seat belt enforcement effort will run from November 24–30, 2025, with officers increasing patrols to reduce fatalities involving unrestrained drivers and passengers.
According to federal data, 309 people were killed in traffic crashes nationwide during the 2023 Thanksgiving holiday period. Of those deaths, 44% involved victims who were not wearing seat belts. Safety officials noted that nighttime proved especially deadly, with nearly half of unrestrained fatalities occurring after dark.
“Buckle your seat belt to stay safe and follow the law,” Arkansas Public Safety Secretary Colonel Mike Hagar said in a statement. “If our law enforcement officers spot you riding without a seat belt, we will pull you over and issue a ticket. The bottom line is this: That seat belt may mean the difference between life and death. This Thanksgiving, and every day of the year, remember: Click It or Ticket.”
Arkansas law requires drivers and front-seat passengers to wear seat belts at all times, with violations carrying a fine of up to $45. State law also mandates that children under 15 be secured in a seat belt or appropriate child safety seat, with potential fines of up to $100.
For more information on seat belt safety and holiday travel tips, visit nhtsa.gov/SeatBelts or contact the Arkansas Highway Safety Office at (501) 618-8136.
