The Maine Bureau of Highway Safety (BHS) announced the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s “Click It or Ticket” seat belt education and enforcement campaign began May 11 and will run through Sunday, May 31. The campaign, which coincides with the Memorial Day holiday weekend, will involve Maine State Police and local agencies across the state.
There have been 23 motor vehicle occupant fatalities in Maine so far in 2026. Of those, 13 (57%) were unbelted. Nationally in 2024, 9,758 passenger vehicle occupants killed in crashes were not wearing seat belts. Among the young adult (18-34) passenger vehicle occupants killed in 2024, 59% were unbuckled— one of the highest percentages for all age groups.
Seat belt violations became a primary traffic infraction in Maine in 2007 and carry a fine of $50 for the first offense, $125 for the second offense and $250 for the third and subsequent offenses. BHS said participating law enforcement agencies are taking a no-excuses approach and will be writing citations day and night. BHS also reminds drivers that child passengers must be restrained with smaller children secured in a safety seat that fits their weight, height and the vehicle in which it is secured. For more information or tips on properly securing a child safety seat, visit their webpage