The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is urging drivers to wear seat belts as part of the Click It or Ticket campaign, which will take place from May 18 to May 31. The campaign coincides with the Memorial Day holiday and focuses on increasing seat belt use through high-visibility enforcement.
The initiative highlights the importance of seat belt safety for both drivers and passengers. Law enforcement agencies across local and state lines will participate in the effort, emphasizing that not wearing a seat belt could result in a citation or more serious consequences. “Seat belt use should be an automatic habit for drivers and passengers alike,” NOPD Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick said. “During the Click It or Ticket campaign, we’ll be working with our fellow law enforcement officers across local and state lines to ensure the message gets out to drivers and passengers. Not buckling up could mean a ticket, or worse, risking a life.”
According to recent data cited by officials, there were 9,758 unbuckled passenger vehicle occupants killed in traffic crashes in 2024. The national seat belt use rate was reported at 91.2% that year; however, officials note that increased compliance is needed among those who still do not buckle up.
A particular focus of this year’s campaign is nighttime enforcement due to higher rates of unrestrained occupant fatalities during evening hours—56% between 6 p.m. and 5:59 a.m., according to data shared by organizers. In addition, more than half (53%) of males killed in crashes in 2023 were not wearing seat belts; for females killed in crashes during that period, 41% were unrestrained.
Officials also remind motorists about proper seat belt positioning: placing the shoulder strap across the chest away from the neck; laying the lap belt over hips rather than stomach; and never placing belts behind backs or under arms. They encourage friends and family members to remind each other about buckling up regardless of seating position or age.
More information about Click It or Ticket can be found at NHTSA.
