August 1, 2006

CONNECTICUT STATE POLICE ADVISE CONNECTICUT RESIDENTS
TO AVOID THE DEADLY SIDE OF SUMMER

Summer is here.  The children are out of school and playing in our neighborhoods and parks.  Graduates from high school and college are celebrating their milestone of completing their educations.  Many families have their summer vacations planned and are ready to take to the highways for their getaways.

Summer is not all fun and freedom.  In fact, summer can be the most deadly time in New England and speeding – often by young and alcohol-impaired drivers who are not using seat belts – is the main reason.

From August and September, there are more motor vehicle-related injuries and fatalities than at any other time of year. Sadly, the Fourth of July is the second deadliest holiday of the year, with the exception of New Year’s Eve.  With more people using their cars to take long weekends and driving vacations, these statistics are not surprising.

   It seems that everyone is racing to their destinations; getting them to slow down on the road is an unending challenge for law enforcement. The following statistics serve as a grave warning:

·      One third of all fatal crashes involve speed.

·      The majority of drivers in those crashes are between the ages of 16 and 24.

·      Alcohol is a factor in 40 percent of those crashes.

·      Most speed-related crashes occur on local roads, not major highways.

   Tragically, fatal crashes can be prevented. The Connecticut State Police note that troopers will continue their enforcement efforts all summer long.   

   “Our troopers have worked hard this summer and will continue to target areas in which high numbers of accidents traditionally occur.  They will be focusing on speeding and seat belt violators and will be on the lookout for hazardous drivers who may be intoxicated,” noted Department of Public Safety Commissioner Leonard C. Boyle.

   “All drivers are responsible for safely operating their vehicles, obeying all traffic laws and ensuring the safety of their passengers and others on the road. If you violate the laws of the state of Connecticut, you can expect a ticket from the State Police,” said Colonel Edward Lynch, Commanding Officer of the Connecticut State Police.

   Drivers should follow safe driving directions:

·      Observe posted speed limits.

·      Always wear a seat belt and insist that your passengers do the same.

·      Designate a sober driver and give that person your keys.

·      Call a taxi or use public transportation if you are stranded and impaired.

·      If you observe speeding or drunk driving on the road, dial *SP on your cell phone.

·      Take the keys of someone who may be impaired and wants to drive; help that person make transportation arrangements.

·      Parents and caregivers should remind new drivers about the dangers of speeding and the importance of buckling up.

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