LITTLE ROCK -- Law enforcement officers across Arkansas have teamed-up with the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and stepped up enforcement of seatbelt laws to make the Thanksgiving holiday a safe one.
Beginning Monday, Arkansas State Troopers, local police and sheriff's deputies will be working together to enforce Arkansas seatbelt laws. The weeklong enforcement emphasis during the Thanksgiving holiday period is part of NHTSA's "Click It or Ticket" seatbelt awareness campaign.
Failing to abide by the law to buckle-up could cost motorists a fine if stopped by a law enforcement officer. More importantly, it could cost them serious injury or their life.
During the 2019 Thanksgiving holiday weekend, there were 279 people killed in traffic crashes across the nation. More than half were unrestrained, according to the news release.
Nighttime proved even more deadly, with 52% of Thanksgiving weekend crashes occurring at night.
"These deaths represent needless tragedies for families across the nation," said Colonel Bill Bryant, Director of the Arkansas State Police n a news release.. "Using a seatbelt could mean the difference between life and death this Thanksgiving holiday and every day."
(For more information about traveling safely this Thanksgiving, please visit nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/seat-belts online or contact the Arkansas Highway Safety Office at 501-618-8136.)